Astounding views on technological assistance

There is nothing like a bit of controversy to stir emotions. The electronic media has been red hot over the last week slating the unacceptable situation regarding the use (or non-use) of the useless DRS that has had to be tolerated during the test series in England.

Everyone has an opinion. Thankfully, after sensible consideration, most are now starting to agree that the inadequacy of the system currently in play is resulting in farcical scenarios. A perfect case in point was at Trent Bridge when Harbhajan Singh became the middle victim in Stuart Broad’s hat-trick but conclusive evidence proved it was an inside edge. The fact that he was given out LBW outrageously meant he could not review the decision. India went on to lose their last five wickets in the first innings for 21 runs … and also the game.

It really isn’t that difficult. Once some time is spent understanding the technology involved in the adjudication model, it is simple. The use of the full range of DRS technology should be utilised only when an acceptable high number of frames per second are captured by the ball-tracking technology cameras. This ensures more accuracy and precision in decision-making. Already there are some margins of error built in to the execution of DRS which should result in acceptance by all.

Here is the bottom line. The use of technology, provided strict specifications are adhered to, will always provide a far more accurate adjudication platform than relying solely on human assessment. The cost implication of maintaining standardisation of the correct technical implementation is another consideration, but for that to be successful the ICC must take ownership of the concept and fund expense through sponsorship.

Cricket has always been adventurous and reasonably progressive when it comes to development. Think how much the game has changed in the last 10 years and imagine how much it will change further over the next decade.

Adopting the use of technology in the decision-making process is a strong vote for the modernisation of the sport and verification of moving with the times.

However, that is not the case though with all high profile sports. The following regarding baseball, the sport considered America’s game and one that’s made for television, will amaze you.

Joe Torre is a legend of American baseball. He was a nine-time All-Star player and perhaps more famously manager of the New York Yankees from 1996 to 2007 before moving to the LA Dodgers for a couple of seasons. Post managerial retirement he is now Major League Baseball’s Executive Vice President in charge of baseball operations. Directly translated that means he is the man in charge of everything that happens on the field.

The debate regarding officially using video evidence raised its head again recently in baseball following a costly blown officials call in the 19th inning of last week’s Pittsburgh Pirates-Atlanta Braves game as the plate umpire was proven incorrect by television replays at a crucial moment.

Joe Torre was immediately sought for comment. His response was blunt and conclusive as it always was when he ruled as a manager. Then, he always retorted that he opposed the expanded use of instant replay, calling it an imperfect solution.

In an official statement in his new influential role Joe repeated: "I have heard many discussions on umpiring and technology over the past two years, including both the pros and the cons of expanding replay. However, most in the game recognise that the human element always will be part of baseball and instant replay can never replace all judgment calls by umpires. Obviously, a play like this is going to spark a lot of conversation, and we will continue to consider all viewpoints in our ongoing discussions regarding officiating in baseball."

Cop that sports lovers!

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