Decision Review System

Decision Review System(DRS)-New Rules and Methods Used


The Decision Review System (DRS) is a technology-based system used in cricket to review on-field decisions made by umpires. It allows teams to challenge decisions they believe to be incorrect. Here's how the DRS works:

  1. Number of Reviews: Each team is usually given a limited number of reviews per innings, typically two in Test matches and one in limited-overs matches. If a review is successful (decision overturned), the team retains the review and can use it again.
  2. Types of Decisions: The DRS can be used to review various types of decisions, such as dismissals (caught behind, LBW, caught in the field), decisions regarding boundaries, and sometimes for assessing whether a batsman has been run out or stumped.
  3. Appeal and Consultation: When a team wishes to challenge a decision, they must make an appeal to the on-field umpire within a specific time frame after the decision is given. The captain or the batsman involved in the decision often consults with teammates and the non-striking batsman to decide whether to request a review.
  4. On-Field Review: The on-field umpire, upon receiving the appeal, refers the decision to the third umpire, who reviews the incident using various technology tools available, such as ball-tracking, Hot Spot, Snickometer, and Ultra Edge.
  5. Ball-Tracking Technology: The ball-tracking technology (commonly known as Hawk-Eye) is used to predict the path of the ball after it hits the batsman's pad or bat. It helps in determining whether the ball would have hit the stumps in case of LBW appeals.
  6. Snickometer and Ultra Edge: These technologies analyze the sound and deviation when the ball passes the bat, helping to determine whether there was an edge on the bat.
  7. Hot Spot: Hot Spot uses infrared cameras to detect heat generated by the ball's impact on the bat or pad, providing visual evidence of an edge or impact.
  8. Umpire's Call: If the third umpire finds clear evidence to overturn the on-field decision, they communicate the decision to the on-field umpire, who changes the decision. However, if there is insufficient evidence to overturn the decision, the on-field umpire's original decision (known as Umpire's Call) stands.
  9. Limitations: It's important to note that the DRS has limitations. Some decisions, such as determining the height of delivery in LBW cases, can be subjective and rely on the umpire's judgment. The accuracy of the technology and the interpretation of results can also influence the outcome.

The use of the Decision Review System helps reduce human errors in decision-making and adds an extra layer of fairness and accuracy to the game of cricket. However, it is crucial to use the technology judiciously and ensure its consistent implementation to maintain the integrity of the game.