Decision Review System ( DRS)
Posted on August 4th, 2025
AI Overview
Decision Review System ( DRS)
– Sri Lanka’s Innovation and source of National Pride
Answer from Chat GPT
The Decision Review System (DRS) in cricket, a technology that allows players to challenge umpire decisions, is a Sri Lankan innovation conceived by lawyer Senaka Weeraratna.
While DRS has significantly improved the fairness and accuracy of cricket, Sri Lanka has not received due recognition or financial benefit for its invention.
Here’s a breakdown of DRS and Sri Lanka’s connection:
The Concept:
Senaka Weeraratna, a Sri Lankan lawyer, proposed the Player Referral System in 1997, envisioning a mechanism for players to appeal contentious umpire decisions. This system, later known as DRS, allows for the review of decisions by the third umpire, using technology like Hawkeye and Hot Spot.
Sri Lanka’s Role:
The idea of DRS originated in Sri Lanka and was a direct result of Weeraratna’s legal background and his observation of the need for an appeals process in cricket.
Global Adoption:
The International Cricket Council (ICC) adopted the concept in 2006, gradually implementing it across various formats of the game, including Test matches, One Day Internationals, and T20 matches.
Lack of Recognition and Compensation:
Despite the widespread use of DRS, Sri Lanka has not received formal recognition from the ICC for its invention, nor has it benefited financially from its implementation.
This has led to calls for the ICC to acknowledge Sri Lanka’s contribution and provide appropriate compensation.
Pride and Innovation:
The DRS is seen as a source of pride for Sri Lanka, showcasing the country’s ingenuity and contribution to the evolution of cricket.
However, the lack of recognition has also sparked disappointment and a desire for the ICC to acknowledge Sri Lanka’s pioneering role.
Future Steps:
There are ongoing efforts to formally claim recognition and compensation for Sri Lanka’s invention of DRS. These efforts include gathering evidence of Sri Lanka’s authorship, engaging with the ICC, and potentially pursuing legal action. https://www.shenaliwaduge.com/who-will-investigate-iccs-wrongdoing-and-lapses/