New Delhi, Oct 19: The ongoing Women’s Cricket World Cup has come under intense scrutiny over umpiring standards and the use of the Decision Review System (DRS), with multiple incidents sparking debate among players, fans, and cricket experts.
In the first two weeks of the tournament, a series of questionable decisions has highlighted a worrying lack of familiarity with DRS among many officials.One of the most talked-about moments occurred during the England vs Bangladesh clash. England captain Heather Knight, batting on 13 while chasing 179, edged a delivery from Fahima Khatun to Shorna Akter at cover. Convinced she was out, Knight began walking off, only for third umpire Gayathri Venugopalan to overturn the on-field decision, citing insufficient evidence. Earlier in the same match, another caught-behind appeal against Knight was overturned after the TV umpire concluded the ball had struck her pad rather than her bat.Controversy was also evident in the India vs Pakistan match. Pakistan opener Muneeba Ali was initially given not out despite clear evidence of a run-out. Only after reviewing additional footage did third umpire Kerrin Klaaste reverse the decision. (Agencies)
