DRS “very likely” in CPL next year

By Avenash Ramzan

The Decision Referral System (DRS) could come fully on stream for the 2019 edition of the Hero Caribbean Premier League. This is the assurance given by Chief Operations Officer of the League, Pete Russell.

This year’s tournament, currently at the start of its final week, has been plagued by poor umpiring, prompting the introduction of the DRS for the last two games- Qualifier Two and the final in Trinidad and Tobago.

Russell, speaking to media operatives in Guyana on Monday, said: “I think in the decision-making process we didn’t give them (the umpires) necessarily the tools that they are used to on the international scene. Obviously, DRS is coming in for the last two games, which I think will make their job a little easier.”

Looking ahead to 2019, Russell explained: “Bringing that sort of technology (DRS) is a big investment, but the tournament is (at) such a level now and the expectation is at such a level that you have to make sure that every angle is covered. I think for us we just want the players to be able to go out and play without having the fear of being caught out by a bad decision, so it’s very likely we will have it next year.”

There have been numerous umpiring blunders this season, prompting widespread social media reaction and global attention.

One of the most notable errors was Jason Holder’s dismissal of Kieron Pollard. Pollard, who had taken guard outside the batting crease, moved down the track and was trapped on the pad.

The on-field umpire deemed it out, but the decision was referred to the third umpire to check for the legitimacy of the delivery. Replays show that Holder had overstepped, but the verdict remained out.

RELATED LINK: https://admin.newsroom.gy/2018/09/09/finally-decision-referral-system-for-cpl-games/