Broadcasting umpire chats to be trialled

ICC decides to initiate practice in Australia-South Africa ODI series.

SYDNEY: Discussions between the on-field and television umpires will be aired during Australia’s upcoming one-day series against South Africa, said the International Cricket Council (ICC) yesterday.

Cricket’s governing body said it would conduct a trial during the series, which starts tomorrow, to make communication between umpires available to broadcaster Nine Network during decision-making.

The ICC said if the trial was successful, it may consider allowing the broadcast of umpire discussions at ‘select matches’ during the World Cup hosted by Australia and New Zealand from February.

“For years, viewers have been making their own decisions during a referral or review,” said ICC’s general manager, Geoff Allardice.

“Now they will be even closer to the game, hearing what the umpire is saying when making those decisions.” 

Published in The Express Tribune, November 13^th, 2014.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.