Nov 23, 2005

Technology and cricket

Cricket can learn from American football from The Hindu

Some very good suggestions to reduce some very frustrating umpiring decisions.

"What to do? Obviously the idea of sending every appeal to a third umpire
must be rejected as slow and belittling. Instead, consideration could be given
to the sort of compromise reached in American Football whereby each coach is
allowed four challenges during a match. To question a decision he must throw a
red flag onto the field, a move that in other circumstances might provoke a riot
in George Bush country. If replays indicate that the ref was right then a
challenge is forfeited. Compelling evidence is needed before a decision is
overturned.
Applying the idea to cricket, captains could be allowed two
challenges an innings. Of course they must not waste them. Shane Warne could get
through the allocation in his first over. Unless all three stumps had been
flattened, Justin Langer would seek a second opinion. Just as well Steve Waugh
has retired. The captain must be firm.
"

1 comments:

americancricketer said...

Hey There, I find your suggestion interesting in the fact that when I took up this great sport, the ultimate thing that got me interested is the fact that above all, sportsmanship is very highly respected and required and what the umpire rules is the final word. After playing some matches and learning extensively, it seems that appealing a decision is almost accepted as an obligatory part of the game. Which seems to be in direct conflict with the spirit of the sport. For a good look into the state of American Cricket, feel free to peruse my blog!! Good luck and good observation. Swami

http://americancricketer.blogspot.com/