Referrals are also known as reviews in cricket. Both the batting and fielding sides can challenge the umpire decision and get as much as two unsuccessful challenges per innings. In Test Cricket, each team is allowed to make no more than two successful review requests per 80 overs. However, in a few instances, the referral system is believed to be relaxing the umpires during a match. This system has been welcomed most in the game despite a few criticisms.
Understanding the Referral System in Cricket
The new referral system is widely accepted despite a few criticism on how umpires may end up losing their credibility and authority in the field during a match. However, umpires are also supporting this new system after the recent success of the ruling allowing third umpires to check run outs during game play. During a game play, there are four camera angles available for the third umpire to see. A similar system is also practiced in tennis that features a hawk eye system. The Indian cricket scene is slightly skeptical with this new system but initially agreed to trial the player referral or umpire review system.
Hesitations on the Referral Systems from the Indian Teams
The player review or referral system is an additional technology used to be able to see and review controversial decisions during a cricket match. This is in reference to the dismissal of batsman or batswomen during game play as called out by the on field umpire. This match was first tested between a match between India and Sri Lanka back in 2008. When the Indian teams agreed to the new referral system for cricket matches, they unfortunately experienced defeat from the Sri Lankan team who benefited the most from the technology during its trial period. This match was also the official debut of the new system in the International Cricket Council. The system was officially used in the One Day Internationals back in 2011 during England’s tour of Australia. This system is made mandatory by the ICC in all international matches.