Umpire Decision Review System (UDRS) to be part of next year’s World Cup
Controversial decisions have always caused a lot of media headlines. Umpire Decision Review System, commonly known as UDRS, has provided some answers to this problem. With the improvement in technology, new methods are introduced to limit on-field umpiring errors. The system is currently being used in only the Test format of the game. UDRS was officially launched by the International Cricket Council in November 2009 during the test match played between http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Bangladesh-c747). The decision received immediate appreciations from various corners of the cricketing world.
Referring to the poor umpire decisions that took place in the recent football World Cup, ICC Chief Executive http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Haroon-Lorgat-c61719 told reporters: “We’ve just seen in another World Cup that is going on what happens when match officials get the decisions wrong. It can have a significant impact on the outcome of a game. We’re very keen to use the decision review system at the upcoming World Cup.”
ICC still needs to strike a deal with media group ESPN Star Sports regarding the availability of sufficient technology for this global event. One reason for not rolling out this technology in all formats is its cost burden. Cricketing boards are reluctant to abide by this new rule, since it will require the hiring of some expensive equipment. The broadcasters are under no obligation to provide such a facility. ICC needs to sort this cost-benefit matter as quickly as possible in order to provide a better decision-making process.
The England side got frustrated at the system during the Boxing Day Test played against http://www.senore.com/Cricket/South-Africa-c757. Umpire Daryl Harper turned down a review request, while the replays showed that Graeme Smith had clearly edged a Ryan Sidebottom delivery, which was easily taken by wicketkeeper Matt Prior. An investigation was launched for this event. The investigation committee labelled it to be a technical error; the committee found insufficient volume on the monitor which was available to Harper, which prevented Harper from making a correct decision. Daryl Harper was given a clean chit. Despite this, English coach Andy Flower has appreciated the decision to introduce UDRS in the upcoming World Cup. "I think the DRS, in whatever format it is used, is quite useful - because we get more good decisions," Flower said. "I have no problem with that at all [DRS at World Cup]. I don't see why, if we give the same level of importance to all three formats, it is only Test cricket that should have DRS available."
The board meeting of ICC has also allowed the teams to reclaim their review request if technology fails.
Each team will have an option of two unsuccessful review requests per innings. If the original decision stands, but for reasons different than what were originally intended, even that will be counted as an unsuccessful review request. Where available, the third umpire can use different technologies like Slow-motion replays, Super slow motion replays, Ultra motion replays, Stump microphone sound, Approved ball-tracking technology (Hawk Eye) and Hot Spot footage.
The meeting also discussed issues regarding the non-striker stealing the ground before the ball is bowled; it was decided to discourage this activity, since it provides unfair advantage in the completion of runs. The meeting also concluded that a bowler reserves the right of not bowling if the batsman is switching grip when the bowl is about to be delivered. "Should the bowler see a batsman change his grip or stance prior to the delivery stride, the bowler can decide not to bowl the ball."
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