When you’re watching a tense cricket match and suddenly a batter signals a “T” with their hands, you’re likely wondering — what is DRS in cricket? The Decision Review System (DRS) has become one of the most talked-about technologies in modern cricket. But how exactly does it work, and why is it such a game-changer?

Let’s break it down in the simplest way possible.

What is DRS in Cricket?

DRS, or the Decision Review System, is a technology-based system used to help umpires make better decisions. It allows players to challenge the umpire’s on-field call if they think it’s incorrect.

Each team gets a limited number of reviews per innings — usually 2 in Tests and 2 in limited-overs formats (ODIs and T20s). If the review is successful, the team keeps it. If not, they lose one.

Why DRS in Cricket Was Introduced?

Cricket is a game of fine margins. Sometimes, a ball grazes the bat ever so slightly, or hits the pad just millimeters away from the stumps. Umpires do their best, but they’re human. DRS adds a layer of fairness and accuracy using tech

How Does DRS in Cricket Work?

When a team wants to challenge a decision, here’s what happens:

1. Player Signals the “T”: Within 15 seconds, the captain or batter/bowler must signal to the umpire.
2. Third Umpire Checks Footage: They review the on-field decision using various technologies

Technologies Used in DRS:

• Ball Tracking (Hawk-Eye): Shows the predicted path of the ball to check for LBWs.
• UltraEdge or Snickometer: Detects faint edges off the bat using sound waves.
• Hot Spot: Uses infrared imaging to show contact points on the bat or pad.

Example: Imagine a batter is given out LBW. But the review shows the ball was missing leg stump — the decision is reversed!

What Kind of Decisions Can Be Reviewed?

• LBW (Leg Before Wicket)
• Caught Behind
• Bat-Pad Edges
• No-balls & Wides (in some formats like IPL)

Fielders cannot review boundary decisions

DRS Rules in Cricket Every Fan Should Know

• Umpire’s original decision plays a huge role. If it’s “Umpire’s Call,” the decision stays.
• You can’t review a wide ball or a leg-bye.
• Teams must signal for DRS within 15 seconds of the umpire’s decision.

What is “Umpire’s Call”?

This is the part that confuses many fans.
If Hawk-Eye shows that the ball is just clipping the stumps (less than 50% hitting), the original umpire’s decision stands. That’s called “Umpire’s Call.”

Pros & Cons of DRS in cricket

Pros:

1.Reduces umpiring errors

2.Increases fairness

3.Adds tech drama to the match

Cons:

1.Technology isn’t perfect

2.Can slow down the game

3.“Umpire’s Call” is still controversial

Final Thoughts

DRS is like cricket’s version of VAR (in football). It’s not flawless, but it makes the game more just. As a fan, it’s thrilling to watch those tense seconds as the third umpire reviews the footage and the roar when the decision changes!

So the next time you see that “T” signal, you know a big moment is about to unfold.