Kookaburra starts developing a wax applicator to shine cricket balls in the post-COVID-19 world

Australian manufacturer Kookaburra will soon be ready with a wax applicator as an alternative to saliva and sweat to help bowlers shine cricket balls in the post-COVID-19 world.

There is speculation that the use of saliva to shine the ball will be stopped to cut down the risk of the highly contagious infection with reports suggesting that the ICC is considering the possibility of allowing the use of artificial substances to polish the ball under the supervision of umpires.

Responding to the extraordinary situation, Kookaburra started developing a wax applicator, which could be ready in a month's time.

"Kookaburra's research and development centre in Australia has been working on a product to replace the traditional



methods of polishing a ball that could be controlled and managed by the match umpire. We have developed a unique wax formula for polishing a cricket ball," Brett Elliott, group managing director of the brand, told the PA news agency.

"The pocket size sponge applicator would enable umpires or players to apply a thin layer of wax which could then be rubbed and polished in a traditional manner to enhance the shine on the ball."

Acting on guidelines framed by Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), Australia has already restricted the use of saliva and sweat.

Elliott is hopeful they would be able to deliver the product within a month even though testing in match conditions can only be done when the global health crisis subsides.