Following the contentious dismissal of Mohammad Rizwan during the second Test against Australia, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to approach the International Cricket Council (ICC) to discuss issues related to umpiring decisions and the use of technology in cricket.
In the recent match, the on-field umpire initially rejected appeals from Australian captain Pat Cummins for a caught behind against Rizwan. However, the decision was overturned by the home side through the Decision Review System (DRS). The controversy arose when the ‘Snickometer’ indicated a spike just above Rizwan’s wrist, leading to dissatisfaction within the Pakistan camp.
A reliable source within the PCB revealed that Zaka Ashraf, the head of the board, engaged in a conversation with team director Mohammed Hafeez. Hafeez conveyed concerns about umpiring decisions and the application of technology during the Melbourne Test, which Pakistan lost by 79 runs. The PCB is now gearing up to bring these concerns to the attention of the ICC.
All regulations governing cricket, including the use of technology on the field, are sanctioned by the ICC Executive Board after careful examination by the MCC Cricket Committee and ICC Cricket Committee.
Hafeez, visibly displeased during the post-match press conference, emphasized the need to address inconsistent umpiring decisions and challenges associated with technology that influenced the outcome of the Test. He highlighted concerns that at times, the focus seemed to shift more towards technology than the actual game itself.
While expressing support for technology in the sport, Hafeez stressed that if its use introduces doubt and confusion, it becomes unacceptable. He particularly questioned the concept of ‘umpire’s call’ and called for clarity and certainty in cricket decisions.
Hafeez further disclosed that he had spoken with Rizwan, and the wicketkeeper-batsman asserted that the ball did not touch his gloves. According to Hafeez, conclusive evidence should be a prerequisite to overturn the decision made by the on-field umpire. The PCB’s move to engage with the ICC underscores the significance of maintaining fairness and transparency in cricket officiating.
