• Home
• /
• Cricket

UDRS is gaining popularity: ICC

DUBAI - The recently introduced Umpire Decision Review System (UDRS) has cut down umpiring errors significantly and will be used more often when it gets cheaper, an official said on Wednesday.

The system which was introduced on a trial basis in June 2008, allowing players to challenge on-field umpires’ decisions and refer them to the television official.

The ICC General Manager Cricket David Richardson praised the technology and was surprised that only one country in the world is against the system.

“We think the UDRS has eased out pressure on the on-field umpires, nine out of ten teams are in favour of it” Richardson said.

India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has said recently that umpires must smarten up their act, fuelling a fresh debate on the controversial Umpire Decision Review System (UDRS).

“There are two gentlemen standing on the ground as umpires,” Dhoni said.

“They are professionals and paid to do their job. They have got support from the TV umpire. So it is surprising to see them making some of the mistakes.“They have to step up and perform.“I have mixed opinion on the UDRS,” he said.

“It is not something that gives cent per cent results. It is not always correct. It is like I have to buy a life jacket but it does not come with a warranty,” said Dhoni.Richardson agreed technology will not always be hundred per cent.

The former South African wicketkeeper hoped with latest innovations, countries will use more technology in cricket.

“The technology use will go to frightening limits, the 3-D television and other innovations will come to effect and not using the technology will be a concern. I think it will be adopted more when it becomes less costly.

“Bur we never know where we will be standing after 10 or 15 years because technology is progressing at a frantic pace.”

The UDRS will be used for the first time in the Ashes, beginning in Australia later this month, and also in next year’s World Cup, to be jointly hosted by India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

liaqat@khaleejtimes.com