3 min read
The Decision Review System (DRS) in cricket explained
How the Decision Review System works in cricket: who can review, the technology used, what umpire's call means, and how DRS decisions move live markets.
- Published
- Reading time
- 3 min read
- Sections
- 8
- FAQs answered
- 6
The short answer
The Decision Review System (DRS) lets a fielding captain or a batter challenge an on-field umpire's decision. The third umpire then checks it with replays, ball-tracking and edge-detection technology. Each team gets a limited number of unsuccessful reviews per innings, so choosing when to use one is part of the game.
AI overview
Key takeaways
- DRS lets a fielding captain or a batter challenge an on-field decision, which the third umpire then checks.
- Reviews use ball-tracking, edge detection such as UltraEdge, slow-motion replays and sometimes Hot Spot.
- Each team has a limited number of unsuccessful reviews per innings.
- Bets settle on the final decision after a review, not on the first on-field signal.
How does a DRS review work?
After an on-field decision, the batter or the fielding captain signals a review with a 'T' shape. The third umpire checks replays and technology, then tells the on-field umpire whether to keep or overturn the decision.
What technology does DRS use?
- Ball-tracking, which predicts the ball's path for LBW decisions.
- Edge detection such as UltraEdge, which uses sound to show whether the ball touched the bat.
- Slow-motion replays from several camera angles.
- Thermal imaging such as Hot Spot, in some series.
What does umpire's call mean?
When ball-tracking shows the ball only clipping the stumps or the line, the evidence isn't strong enough to overturn the original decision. The on-field call stands, and the reviewing team keeps its review.
How does DRS affect live betting?
Markets are usually suspended while a review is in progress, then reopen once the decision is final. A wicket overturned by DRS can swing session and match prices sharply, so don't place bets during a review.
How is an LBW checked on review?
Ball-tracking answers three questions in order. Did the ball pitch outside leg stump? If so, it can't be out. Did it hit the pad in line with the stumps, unless the batter offered no shot? And would it have gone on to hit the stumps? Only when all three point to out does the third umpire give it. Marginal answers to the last two fall into umpire's call.
How long does a player have to ask for a review?
Under ICC playing conditions, the request must be made within 15 seconds of the on-field decision. That's why captains consult the bowler and wicketkeeper quickly, and why a review signalled after a long discussion can be refused.
Where did DRS come from?
The system was first trialled in a Test series between India and Sri Lanka in 2008, before becoming part of international cricket's playing conditions. Ball-tracking and sound-based edge detection now do most of the work.
How should bettors think about DRS?
- A team with no reviews left is more exposed to a wrong decision, especially late in an innings.
- Close LBW calls often end as umpire's call, so the original decision tends to stand.
- Settlement follows the final decision after any review, not the first on-field signal.
FAQ · 6
Questions players ask
Straight answers to the questions that come up most on this topic.
Still unsure? Ask the Wazir Win team
Who can ask for a DRS review?
The batter who was given out, or the fielding captain when a not-out decision is given.
How many reviews does each team get?
A limited number of unsuccessful reviews per innings, depending on the format and competition.
Does a team lose a review on umpire's call?
No. On umpire's call, the team keeps its review.
Are betting markets suspended during a review?
Usually yes. They reopen at new prices once the decision is confirmed.
How long does a team have to ask for DRS?
Under ICC playing conditions, 15 seconds from the on-field decision.
Can an LBW be given if the ball pitched outside leg stump?
No. A ball pitching outside leg stump can't produce an LBW dismissal.
Written by
Wazir Win Cricket Desk
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