RCB vs PBKS, IPL 2025: Bhuvneshwar Kumar makes Bizarre Admission before Punjab Match!

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​Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar candidly admitted that he had overlooked the recent lifting of the saliva ban in the IPL 2025.

The prohibition, initially imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic, was rescinded by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) ahead of the current season, following consultations with team captains.​

Speaking at a pre-match press conference before RCB's clash against Punjab Kings, Bhuvneshwar admitted that he was unaware of the saliva ban lift.

"I forgot that I can use saliva. Yesterday when the staff told me, I didn't know that I have to use it. I am not sure if it will help or not, but now that I remember, definitely in tomorrow's match I will put some saliva and see if it helps or not," the RCB pacer said.

It is a bizarre thing to forget about the saliva reinstatement, as the update was made clear by BCCI at the start of the season.

The reintroduction of saliva as a ball-shining agent has reignited discussions about its impact on reverse swing, particularly in T20 cricket. Before the IPL 2025, bowlers like Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj have advocated for the return of saliva to aid in generating reverse swing. Shami previously highlighted the challenges bowlers faced without saliva, noting its significance in achieving reverse swing, especially in the latter stages of an innings.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar was bought for Rs 10.75 crore by RCB ahead of IPL 2025, and the Indian veteran has done fairly so far. He has played 5 matches this season and has 6 wickets to his name.

RCB are currently sitting 3rd in the IPL 2025 points table with 8 points in six matches. They won their last match superbly against Rajasthan Royals and will be aiming to secure their first home victory as they face the Punjab Kings on Friday (April 18).