You are in > manchester.com  > News > ICC consider challenge system

Cricket

ICC consider challenge system

04/01/2008

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is considering trialling a new system that will allow players to challenge the rulings of the on-field umpires.

The proposal, which goes against much of the traditional etiquette of the game in accepting umpire's decisions without question, could be tested in match conditions during the Champions Trophy in Pakistan next year.

It is thought that the system's implementation could be hurried in somewhat after several incorrect decisions by umpires in the recent Test series between England and Sri Lanka and the ongoing series between Australia and India.

"I don't think it will be trialled in tests," Speed told Australian broadcaster ABC in an interview.

"There's a Champions Trophy coming up in Pakistan and that would be the time when all the best umpires and technology are there and we could get an idea of how it works."

While accepting that "the cricket community is still divided about the batsmen and bowler having an appeal", he said changes may be necessary to instill confidence in the players that the right decisions are being reached over close calls.

"We have to respect the traditions of the game... but there may be another change in the wind, more countries may support a trial of the system," he continued.

"Generally there's a sense the decisions even themselves out. The dilemma is that the technology has got better, so what do we do with it?

"A lot of people are saying this is the answer, but we're not sure so let's see if it works then we can have the debate."

It is thought any system would be similar to the Hawk-Eye challenge used in tennis, where players can use the computer programme to question umpires' and line judges' decisions.