New Delhi, In a significant move aimed at enhancing clarity and fairness in decision-making, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has introduced key modifications to its Decision Review System (DRS) protocols and concussion replacement rules, effective from December 12, 2023.
DRS Protocols Modification: Stumping Reviews Focus
One notable change involves stumping reviews, where umpires will now solely assess side-on replays for stumping without considering the caught-behind scenario during DRS referrals. Teams must now use a separate DRS option for a caught-behind appeal after a stumping, preventing potential exploitation of the system by reviewing for multiple modes of dismissal with a single referral.
“The change confines a stumping review to only check for stumped, therefore preventing the fielding team a free review for other modes of dismissal (i.e., caught behind) without choosing a player review,” clarified the ICC in its new amendment.
Concussion Replacement Rule Clarity
The ICC has also brought more clarity to the concussion replacement rule. According to the updated regulation, the substitute player will not be allowed to bowl if the replaced player was already suspended from bowling at the time of the concussion. Additionally, on-field injury assessment and treatment time have been limited to four minutes, ensuring a streamlined and time-bound process.
Notable Decision by BCCI: ‘Dead Ball’ and Two-Bouncer Rules to Stay
Meanwhile, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to maintain the ‘Dead Ball’ and two-bouncer-per-over rules, introduced during last year’s Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy, in the upcoming Ranji Trophy matches beginning this Friday. These rules aim to add balance and excitement to the game while prioritizing player safety.
