Issue Analysis – 3rd Umpire
Issue Analysis – 3rd Umpire
Technology in Sport
Technology in Sport
How does the 3rd Umpire affect the way we play Cricket?
The 3rd umpire is a person who sits off the cricket field using high technology equipment and computers to make correct decisions regarding a run out, a catch and a stumping, when the on field umpires are unsure of making a correct decision.
The 3rd umpire is appointed by the International Cricket Council (ICC), the governing body of cricket. It is responsible for the organisation and governance of cricket's major international tournaments, and also appoints the umpires and referees that officiate at all Test matches. The 3rd umpire was introduced into International Test Cricket on the 1st November 1992, to prevent cricketers being incorrectly dismissed during a cricket match of South Africa vs India.
To call for the 3rd umpire, the on field umpire uses their two index fingers to make a square or box shape in the air, which represents a TV screen, in the direction of the grandstand. The 3rd umpire then views a TV replay of the scenario, viewing the play from several different angles, and makes an assessment on whether the cricketer is in or out. Once the final decision has been made by the 3rd umpire the game can then continue again.
A challenging rule was introduced to cricket on the 21st of May 2001. The challenging rule allows a team to challenge the on field umpire decision regarding Leg Before Wicket (LBW). The final decision is then turned to the 3rd umpire who uses high technology equipment to make the final decision. A team is not able to challenge after two incorrect challenges.
During the India vs Sri Lanka Series 2009, Sachin Tendulkar was given three dubious LBW decisions. Three times he was judged out, while he was not. Sachin Tendulkar said “I guess it’s just pre-planned conspiracy”. This situation would not have occurred if the challenge rule was in place at this time.