Answer:

Introduction:

The Umpire Decision Review System (UDRS or DRS) in cricket is a technology-based system used to assist on-field umpires with their decision-making. Teams can request a review of decisions made by the on-field umpires, which are then analyzed using multiple technologies.

Body:

Components of DRS:

• Hawk-Eye: This is a ball-tracking technology that predicts the path of the ball. It’s primarily used for LBW decisions.
• Ultra-Edge / Snickometer: These are sound-based technologies that pick up noises from possible edges. They are used to verify if the ball has touched the bat.
• Hot Spot: It uses infrared cameras to detect heat from friction created by the ball striking the bat or pad.

Silicon Tape and DRS:

The use of silicon tape on the edge of a bat can potentially fool the DRS. The tape can muffle the sound picked up by the Ultra-Edge and reduce the heat signature on Hot Spot, thus making it difficult to detect a faint edge.

For example:

• DRS in Action: In the 2019 Ashes series, Australia’s Steve Smith successfully reviewed an LBW decision using DRS, overturning the on-field decision.
• Silicon Tape Controversy: In 2014, there were allegations that players might be using silicon tape on their bats during the England-India series. However, the ICC found no evidence to support these claims.

Conclusion:

While DRS has been a game-changer in cricket, ensuring higher accuracy of umpiring decisions, the potential for its misuse, like the silicon tape controversy, calls for vigilant monitoring and upgrades to technology. Despite its shortcomings, the DRS continues to be a valuable tool for maintaining fairness in cricket.