By IANS,
Karachi : Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik Tuesday backed the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) decision to experiment with the umpires’ referral system saying that it is a positive change for the game.
“I welcome this move because it is going to have positive effects on the game,” Malik said. “Umpires are only human and can make mistakes, which is why it is good that players have been provided a chance to appeal. Technology can be really helpful,” said the seasoned all-rounder.
The referral system was introduced for the first time during India’s opening Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo last week.
The move has attracted praise and criticism in equal measure. Some believe it to be a good option while others have rejected it as a “silly” move.
Tim Nielsen, the Australia coach, has warned the authorities not to get “too silly” with the ICC’s move for umpire referrals on disputed decisions.
The game’s governing body has experimented with this new rule, which includes using Hawk-Eye to help determine the line of the ball.