Cricket has seen massive changes over the years, but one of the biggest game-changers has been the Decision Review System (DRS). This technology-driven system has helped reduce umpiring errors and made the game fairer.
Yet, many fans still wonder: How does DRS work? What are the rules? And why is "Umpire’s Call" so controversial?
In this guide, we’ll break down everything about DRS in Cricket—its rules, impact, controversies, and whether it’s truly improving the game.
What is DRS in Cricket?
The Decision Review System (DRS) is a technology-based method that allows teams to challenge an on-field umpire’s decision. Players can request a review, and third umpires use various tools like ball-tracking, UltraEdge, and Hawk-Eye to reassess the call.
This system was introduced to minimize human errors and ensure fair play. Initially met with skepticism, DRS is now a crucial part of international cricket, the IPL, and other major leagues.
History of DRS: When Was It Introduced?
The first unofficial use of a review system happened in 2008 during a Test series between India and Sri Lanka.
In 2009, the International Cricket Council (ICC) officially introduced DRS in Test cricket.
By 2011, DRS was also used in ODIs, but with some resistance from teams like India.
In 2017, the DRS system became a permanent feature in all three formats, including T20s.
The IPL introduced DRS in 2018, further cementing its place in the game.
Today, almost every major cricket tournament uses DRS, although rules slightly differ across formats.
How Does DRS Work in Cricket?
When a player disagrees with an umpire’s decision, their team can challenge it using DRS. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the system works:
The player requests a review – The captain (for fielding sides) or the batter (for batting teams) must signal a "T" to the umpire within 15 seconds of the decision.
The third umpire reviews the footage – They use multiple technologies to recheck the call.
Technology comes into play – The umpire uses the following tools:
UltraEdge/Snicko – Detects any sound when the ball passes the bat.
Hawk-Eye – Predicts ball trajectory for LBW decisions.
Ball Tracking – Shows where the ball would have hit the stumps.
HotSpot (if available) – Detects heat generated by ball contact.
Final Decision – If evidence proves the on-field umpire was wrong, the decision is overturned. Otherwise, it stands.
Each team gets a limited number of reviews per innings, making it crucial to use them wisely.
DRS Rules in Cricket
1. How Many Reviews Does a Team Get?
Test Matches – Each team gets two unsuccessful reviews per innings.
ODIs & T20s – Teams get one unsuccessful review per innings.
If a review is successful, the team keeps it. But if it fails, they lose one review.
2. Umpire’s Call: Why It’s So Controversial?
Umpire’s Call is one of the most debated aspects of DRS. It applies when a ball-tracking decision is too close to overturn an umpire's original call.
If less than 50% of the ball is hitting the stumps, the original decision stands.
If more than 50% is hitting, the decision is overturned.
This rule frustrates players and fans, as the same ball could be given out or not-out based on the on-field umpire’s decision.
3. Can Umpires Use DRS Themselves?
Yes! In certain cases, umpires can refer decisions to the third umpire for clarity, especially in:
Run-outs
Stumpings
Doubtful catches
This helps ensure fairness in critical moments.
Key Technologies Used in DRS
1. UltraEdge (Snickometer)
Uses sound waves to detect contact between bat and ball.
Helps in deciding caught-behind and LBW appeals.
2. Hawk-Eye (Ball Tracking)
Tracks the ball’s path and predicts if it would have hit the stumps.
Used mainly for LBW decisions.
3. HotSpot
Uses infrared imaging to detect ball contact on the bat or pad.
No longer used widely due to cost and reliability issues.
These tools have made umpiring decisions more accurate, but they aren’t 100% perfect.
Famous DRS Controversies in Cricket
Despite its advantages, DRS has sparked plenty of controversies. Here are some of the most debated ones:
Sachin Tendulkar’s LBW Dismissal (2011 World Cup) – The ball-tracking technology overturned an "out" decision, sparking debates.
Ben Stokes' Dismissal (Ashes 2019) – A clear no-ball wasn’t reviewed, costing England a crucial wicket.
Virat Kohli's Frustration (2021 vs South Africa) – Kohli openly criticized DRS after an LBW call was upheld due to Umpire’s Call.
These moments highlight why players and fans sometimes question the system.
Is DRS Improving Cricket or Hurting It?
Pros of DRS in Cricket
✅ Reduces umpiring mistakes
✅ Adds more accuracy to crucial decisions
✅ Increases fairness in the game
✅ Gives teams a chance to overturn errors
Cons of DRS in Cricket
❌ Umpire’s Call remains controversial
❌ Technology isn’t always 100% accurate
❌ High costs make it unavailable in some matches
❌ Some teams struggle to use reviews wisely
Overall, DRS has improved decision-making, but it still needs refinements to eliminate controversies.
FAQs About DRS in Cricket
1. Who introduced DRS in cricket?
The ICC officially introduced DRS in 2009, but it was first tested in a 2008 series between India and Sri Lanka.
2. What is the full form of DRS?
DRS stands for Decision Review System.
3. Where is DRS used in cricket?
It is used in Test matches, ODIs, T20s, IPL, and other major leagues worldwide.
4. Why is Umpire’s Call used in DRS?
It exists to retain the importance of on-field umpires and avoid overturning marginal decisions.
5. How does DRS impact cricket matches?
It reduces human errors, improves decision-making, and ensures fairer outcomes.
6. Will DRS become fully automated?
While technology is improving, fully automated umpiring is unlikely soon. Human judgment will always play a role.
Final Thoughts
DRS in Cricket has changed the way the game is played. It has helped correct umpiring errors, but issues like Umpire’s Call and inconsistent technology keep it from being flawless.
As cricket continues to evolve, refining DRS could make it even more accurate and fair. Until then, players and fans must live with the system's imperfections—and the occasional drama it brings!
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