1613663346-4183

0:

In a recent development, BCCI  have announced to end the practice soft signals done by umpires. The decision comes in the wake of appeals from all over the world to put an end to the practice. The governing body has shared the change in decision with all the franchises as well. Earlier, the on-field umpire had to reveal his decision with his hands close to the chest after already indicating for Third Umpire. Following the decision, the rule has been updated in the appendix as well.

Another major update that might cheer the fans is the power to overturn wrong umpiring decisions for 'short run' error. Following the new update, Third Umpire will now be able to correct the short run error. Earlier in IPL 2020, Punjab had complained about the same after they had lost a game against Delhi Capitals in the Super Over, which in first place happened courtesy of a short-run error on the official's end. The Punjab management also made an official complaint after they ended up on the losing side.

Notably, the demand for this overhaul increased after the fourth T20I between India and England. Indian batsman Suryakumar Yadav had to return to the pavilion following a controversial decision, where Third Umpire persisted with the on-field umpire's decision because of 'lack of evidence'. With new potentially game-changing reforms, it will be interesting to see if these can bring an improvement in decision-making. While that is something that only time can tell, the decision should certainly see the game become fairer.