Legendary Indian batsman Sunil Gavaskar has ignited a debate over on-field hydration practices in cricket. In a recent column for Sportstar, Gavaskar criticized the modern trend of bowlers grabbing refreshments near the boundary after completing their overs. He argues that this practice gives bowlers an unfair advantage compared to batters who don’t have a similar opportunity to rehydrate between overs.

Sunil Gavaskar’s primary concern is the lack of parity between bowlers and batters. He points out that the International Cricket Council (ICC) playing conditions allow for drinks breaks during matches, but this applies to both teams equally at designated intervals. The current trend, however, allows bowlers to essentially have “mini-drinks breaks” throughout the innings, something batters aren’t afforded.

“Why have the drinks interval then if bowlers are going to get themselves hydrated after going flat out for six deliveries?” questions Sunil Gavaskar. He highlights the exertion faced by batters as well. “Mind you, the batter doesn’t get the chance to have a drink after an over where they may have taken eight runs or so, which are all run,” he adds, emphasizing the physical effort required for both batting and bowling.

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To address this perceived imbalance, Gavaskar proposes a return to the traditional system where drinks were only allowed after a set period of play, typically an hour. He further suggests that permission from the opposition captain and umpires should be mandatory for any drinks consumed outside of these scheduled breaks.

“Cricket is also a game where stamina and endurance matter no matter what the format is,” argues Sunil Gavaskar. He believes the current practice undermines the importance of these qualities by allowing bowlers to “top up” their hydration levels more frequently.

The former Indian skipper goes even further, calling the current trend a “mockery of the drinks interval.” He expresses concern that the initial leniency shown by umpires has now become a widespread habit. Additionally, he suggests stricter enforcement regarding substitutes bringing drinks onto the field for bowlers, insisting that such refreshments should only be offered from beyond the boundary line.

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Sunil Gavaskar’s critique has reignited discussions about fairness and consistency in cricket’s hydration rules. While bowlers undoubtedly exert themselves during their overs, batters face their own physical challenges throughout the innings. Whether the current practice offers bowlers an unfair advantage or is simply a necessary adaptation to the modern game remains to be seen. However, Gavaskar’s call for a more balanced approach ensures that the debate on on-field hydration will continue.