Back sweat replaces saliva but England struggle v Windies

Cricket - First Test - England v West Indies - Rose Bowl Cricket Stadium, Southampton, Britain - July 9, 2020 West Indies' Jason Holder celebrates taking the wicket of England's Mark Wood, caught by West Indies' Shai Hope, as play resumes behind closed doors following the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) Adrian Dennis/Pool via REUTERS

SOUTHAMPTON, England (Reuters) - England fast bowler Mark Wood said on Thursday that players were using 'back sweat' rather than saliva to try and shine the ball in the first test against West Indies at the Ageas Bowl.

Strict health protocols are in place for the return of international cricket after a 117-day stoppage caused by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, including a ban on saliva.