The ICC has already assumed that the field umpires are "already" making a "high number of correct decisions". IOW, a "high number of correct decisions" is good enough, irrespective of the number of horrible decisions. It is like saying that if a surgeon is quite good if the operations conducted by him are right 9 times out of 10, the tenth wrong one does not constitute malpractice, let the patient go to hell! Cricket aficionados may not agree, especially those that have watched the insufferable Bucknor. But then, the ICC's approach has always been like this, e.g., it is all right for a bowler to bend his elbow up to 15 degrees, it is not a no-ball.
I agree, Umpire's decision, that might turn a match one way or the other, should be open to review, in case of any misjudgment or partisan politics. For this affects the loosing team members career, countys reputation and the millions of fans expectation. Justice is essential. But that appeal should be some 2/3 per match, so that the appealing team do not run out of appeal options for obvious judgments. Finally Umpires shouldnt get humiliated or decisions reversed without given a chance to address, for this will destroy the game. The Man in-charge always keeps the show going-whether its the game umpire, or your PhD thesis professor or your school teacher. They should be respected for their unconditional active interest-something they don't get paid for.
This reform is welcome and very much necessary. Umpires too are humans and to err is human. Therefore, it follows that rectifying the error is in the fitness of things. Many a match has been spoiled by bad decisions.
RE:Players' Right to appeal
by Observer on May 06, 2006 02:39 AM
Spirit should not be isolated a few. The Aussies get away with anything to everything while the Indians get the worst deal form everyone including Sri Lankans like Madugalle and Asoka DeSilva. Ponting who shold have been averaging 40 is averaging 57 and Tendulkar who should be averaging 75, averages 56, all thanks to Umpiring. I feel only the Aussies should not be given the right to ask questions.
Transparency,Democracy whatever you call it,is OK. But as a sportsman,it is NOT a correct decision by ICC or whatever is the governing body.Soon we will become like WWF,where the wrestlers do whatever they want to do.Can one guarantee such things will not happen,if we allow questioning of a decision? Soon we may even take an OPINION poll for each decision, and make a cricket match like an Indian Idol/Star Parivar/Filmfare award affair.I think the Players themselves should object to such ridiculous actions.Or do we understand that the Decision Makers, want to spend money/time/honey as the ICC etc are rich bodies who can afford to throw away good money after bad rubbish? Gavaskar/Hussien/Sobers/and all the likes of you,do you support such a thing?
