Former South African pacer Morne Morkel is confident of bowlers finding new ways of making the ball talk amidst the saliva usage ban put by ICC’s Cricket Committee in the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic.

While no external applicants are going to be allowed, the ICC said there is no health issue regarding the use of sweat to maintain the ball. Many former and current players have shown concerns about an uneven contest between the bat and the ball due to this new rule.

"Before we get to the bowlers, I think the biggest challenge will be on the field. Old habits die hard and to constantly remind players not to use saliva is going to take someone who is very switched on during the game. Most of the bowlers nowadays have fantastic skills and are very consistent and I’m sure they will find a new way to make the ball talk," Morkel said to Sportstar.com.

“Sweat is a good alternative for saliva to swing the ball,” says Javagal Srinath

"I personally don’t think we have to over-think this. Pitches have been good for years and bowling attacks which can create pressure and bowl well in partnerships will always pick up wickets,” he added.

Morkel has said, however, the fans remain an integral part of the game. The cricket is set to return in empty stadiums in the current scenario.

"We are nothing without our fans and supporters. Personally, watching a game live is the best way to learn and it also kick-starts the dream in future generations to play at the highest level. Hopefully, when life returns to normal, the supporters will have a real hunger for the game again and support will be strong,” Morkel opined.