5 Rules In Cricket That Need To Be Scrapped

The Decision Review System DRS) was introduced to eliminate obvious umpiring errors, making the game fairer. However, the umpire's call" aspect of DRS has been a contentious issue. Under this rule, if a review shows that the ball is marginally hitting the stumps but not conclusively enough...

Cricket, a sport steeped in tradition and history, has evolved over the years with various rule changes aimed at making the game fairer and more exciting. However, not all rules have had the desired effect. Some have complicated the game unnecessarily, while others have detracted from its entertainment value. Here are five rules in cricket that, if scrapped, could enhance the fun and fairness of the game.

1. THE "UMPIRE'S CALL" IN DRS The Decision Review System (DRS) was introduced to eliminate obvious umpiring errors, making the game fairer. However, the "umpire's call" aspect of DRS has been a contentious issue. Under this rule, if a review shows that the ball is marginally hitting the stumps but not conclusively enough to overturn the on-field umpire's decision, the original decision stands. This often leaves players and fans frustrated, as it creates inconsistencies in decision-making.

WHY IT SHOULD BE SCRAPPED

- Inconsistency: The same delivery can be given out or not out based on the umpire's initial decision, leading to inconsistent results. - Confusion: Fans and players find it hard to understand why a ball hitting the stumps is not always considered out. - Undermines Technology: The whole purpose of DRS is to make accurate decisions. "Umpire's call" dilutes the system's reliability.

Eliminating the "umpire's call" and relying fully on technology for clear decisions would make the game fairer and more transparent.

2. THE OVERTHROW RULE In cricket, if a fielder throws the ball and it hits the batsman or their bat, resulting in additional runs, those runs are counted as overthrows. This rule often leads to unintended consequences, such as the 2019 World Cup final, where England was awarded crucial runs when a throw deflected off Ben Stokes’ bat.