Why do cricketers shine the ball and what effect does it have on the game?

Introduction

If you’ve ever watched a cricket match, you’ve likely seen bowlers or fielders constantly rubbing the ball with their trousers. For those new to the game, it can seem a little strange—why do they do this? Is it just a habit, or does it really matter? This FAQ explores the science and strategy behind shining the ball in cricket.

1. What does “shining the ball” mean in cricket?

Shining the ball means rubbing one side of the cricket ball (previously usually with sweat or saliva, although saliva has now been banned by the ICC) to make it smooth and shiny, while leaving the other side rough and worn.

This creates a difference between the two sides of the ball. One side glides through the air faster (the shiny side), while the rough side creates drag. This imbalance helps bowlers swing the ball.

2. Why is it important for bowlers to shine the ball?

For fast bowlers, swing is a crucial weapon. A well-shined ball:

Traditional swing: Early in the innings, bowlers use shine to make the ball swing left or right, depending on the condition of the seam.
Reverse swing: Late in the innings, when there is more roughness on one side, the ball can swing in an unexpected direction.

This makes batting very difficult, as the ball doesn’t always travel in a straight line.

3. How do players shine the ball?

Traditionally, bowlers or fielders:

Rub sweat (or previously used saliva) on one side.
Use their clothing (often trousers) to shine it.
Constantly care for the ball while fielding.

Since COVID-19, the ICC has banned saliva, so only sweat and polishing are now permitted.

4. Is shining the ball the same as ball tampering?

No. Shining the ball is legal. Ball tampering, on the other hand, is illegal and involves deliberately altering the condition of the ball using external objects like sandpaper, nails, or bottle caps. Famous incidents (such as the sandpaper scandal involving Australia in 2018) have highlighted this distinction.

Shining = legal (part of the game).
Tampering = illegal (punishable offense).

5. Which famous bowlers mastered the art of swing using shine?

Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis (Pakistan): Masters of reverse swing in the 1990s.
James Anderson (England): Known as the “King of Swing.”
Zaheer Khan (India): Adept at using shine for both conventional and reverse swing.

6. Does shining the ball also help spinners?

Yes, but in a different way. For spinners, keeping one side smooth keeps the seam raised and straight, which aids grip and turn. A well-maintained ball is easier to control and manipulate.

7. What happens if the ball isn’t polished?

If bowlers neglect polishing:

The ball becomes excessively worn on both sides.
Swing is reduced.
Batsmen find it easier to score runs.

This is why teams are so vigilant about keeping the ball in good condition.

8. What are the ICC’s new rules regarding polishing?

Saliva is not allowed (permanently banned from 2022).
Only sweat and clothing may be used.
Any attempt to tamper with the ball results in a 5-run penalty and a suspension for the player concerned.

Conclusion

Shining the ball isn’t just a quirk—it’s a scientific and strategic art that has defined cricket for decades. It helps bowlers control swing, challenges batting, and keeps the contest between bat and ball exciting. The distinction between legal shining and illegal tampering is crucial, and cricket continues to evolve with new rules.

The next time you see a fielder shining the ball, you’ll know he’s not just passing time—it’s part of the game’s deeper strategy.