Appeal against decision will not reduce umpires' authority: ICC

Dubai, May 29 (UNI) Refuting criticism that allowing the players to appeal against an on-field umpire's decision would reduce the officials to mere dummies, ICC General Manager Dave Richardson said the new rules will reduce only errors and not the authority of umpires.

''The on-field umpires will continue to make the decisions. Their role is no way being compromised,'' Mr Richardson told ''Gulf News'' here.

''Our intention is not to humiliate the on-field umpires, but help him. Isn't it better to correct a mistake immediately than being criticised later for giving a wrong decision and then being held responsible for changing the course of the game?'' he added.

Mr Richardson said he was sure that not many players would use the rule in the first place as the level of umpiring in international cricket was good but even if some do, it would not harm the on-field umpire's stature or authority.

''Only if they do make a mistake and the players know that it is a mistake can the players appeal to the television umpire. The players are not going to appeal to the television umpire if they feel that the on-field umpire has not committed a mistake,'' he said.

The ICC General Manager felt there was nothing extraordinary about recommending such a rule as it would only make umpires more immune to criticism. He also rejected suggestions that the move might make an already lengthy game more long.

''Appealing to the television umpire is only an extension of the original appeal. I would be surprised if I get to see more than three or four appeals going to the television umpire. Even if they do consult, it won't take more than a minute,'' Mr Richardson assured.

He also made it clear that once ratified by the ICC General Body meeting in London, the rule will come in to practice only on a trial basis and its impact would be closely watched during the period.

''Everything is going to be on trial first and then we will monitor its effect on the on-field umpire's authority,'' he said.

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