Disclaimer:
It’s important to note that shining the ball is not allowed in all forms of cricket. In professional matches, the umpires are responsible for inspecting the condition of the ball and ensuring that it is not being unfairly altered. If a player is found to be using an illegal substance to shine the ball, they may face disciplinary action.
Introduction:
Shining a cricket ball is a technique used by bowlers to try to get the ball to swing in the air or seam on the ground. This can be done by applying a shine to one side of the ball and a roughness to the other side, or by maintaining a consistent shine on both sides of the ball.
Shining the ball can be achieved through a variety of methods, including using saliva, sweat, or substances like vaseline or shoe polish. The idea behind shining the ball is to alter the surface of the ball in a way that affects its aerodynamics, making it behave differently when it is bowled.
In addition to trying to get the ball to swing or seam, bowlers may also shine the ball to try to make it harder for batsmen to see. A shiny, reflective surface can be more difficult to pick up when the ball is bowled, particularly in bright sunlight or under floodlights. This can make it harder for batsmen to judge the length and line of the ball, potentially leading to mistakes or wickets.
how to shine a cricket ball with vaseline
To shine a cricket ball with vaseline, follow these steps:
- Clean the ball: Wipe the ball with a dry cloth to remove any dirt or grime.
- Apply vaseline: Squeeze a small amount of vaseline onto your fingertips and rub it evenly over one side of the ball. Be sure to cover the entire surface of the ball.
- Polish the ball: Use a clean, dry cloth to polish the ball, buffing it until it shines.
- Repeat on the other side: Repeat the process on the other side of the ball, applying vaseline and polishing until it shines.
- Repeat as needed: If the ball begins to lose its shine during play, you can repeat the process as needed to maintain a shiny surface.
