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The fourth Test between India and England in Ranchi saw Michael Vaughan‘s post-dismissal comments on Joe Root‘s lbw decision adding fuel to the ongoing DRS debate. Despite initial uncertainties from on-field umpire Kumar Dharmasena, who suggested the ball might have pitched outside leg stump, the DRS review indicated otherwise, sparking discussions around the system’s transparency. This incident unfolded in the context of earlier contentious dismissals, notably Zak Crawley’s, intensifying the scrutiny on the system.
Calls for DRS transparency: Ben Stokes and Michael Vaughan speak out
Ben Stokes and Michael Vaughan, reacting to the increased scrutiny on DRS in the series, took divergent stands on the issue. Stokes advocated for the removal of the umpire’s call, emphasizing the need for clarity in decision-making. Vaughan, on the other hand, went a step further, calling for enhanced transparency by proposing the placement of cameras on DRS operators in their trucks.
Hawk-Eye creator dismisses Vaughan’s call as ‘uneducated’
In response to Vaughan’s proposal for increased transparency in the DRS, Paul Hawkins, the creator of Hawkeye, criticized Vaughan’s suggestion, deeming it ‘uneducated’ while speaking on the Analyst Podcast.
“The commentary, I think, is a little bit uneducated. It is unfortunate from Vaughan, because, obviously fantastic player, really enjoyed watching him play, and a great commentator, very entertaining. But I think it’s a responsibility to the game, in terms of journalism. Perhaps a little bit more preparation in terms of his role as a journalist may help him explain what’s happening to the huge fan base of cricket so that what he writes is factually correct. In the same way as Hawk-Eye has an obligation to be factually correct, perhaps journalists do too,” Hawkins said.
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Vaughan responds to criticism and stresses fan visibility
Now, Vaughan, through his official X account, clarified that his primary intent is to make the decision-making process in the DRS truck visible to fans at home. The former England captain believed this transparency will offer insights into how decisions are reached, addressing concerns around the DRS system. Vaughan further expressed optimism about a more thorough implementation of DRS in the upcoming Test in Dharamsala.
“It’s very simple .. Show all decisions being made from the trucks then please for full transparency .. show the fans at home exactly how your operation works… that’s all I have asked for .. look forward to seeing it in full flow for the next Test in India,” Vaughan wrote.
It’s very simple .. Show all decisions being made from the trucks then please for full transparency .. show the fans at home exactly how your operation works 👍👍 .. that’s all I have asked for .. look forward to seeing it in full flow for the next Test in India 👍 https://t.co/gpFA515p2A
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) March 1, 2024
India secures series victory with 3-1 lead
The fourth Test’s outcome in Ranchi marked England’s third consecutive loss in the series, leading to an insurmountable 3-1 lead for India. With the series already decided, the dead-rubber fifth Test is scheduled to commence on March 7 at Dharamshala’s picturesque HPCA Stadium.
