In a fiery eruption that threatens to engulf the ongoing debate about DR’s reliability, Islamabad United’s Shadab Khan let loose frustration after a controversial call robbed his team of victory against Quetta Gladiators in the PSL 2024.
The drama unfolded during the 11th over. Gladiators’ captain Rilee Rossouw attempted a sweep off Salman Ali Agha’s delivery, the ball rapping his pads and triggering an ecstatic appeal from the United players. Umpire Aleem Dar raised his finger, but Rossouw, sensing a lifeline, opted for the DRS review.
Then came the moment that ignited the flames. Hawk-Eye, the ball-tracking technology, showed the ball was missing the outside edge of the stumps. The stadium fell silent, disbelief etched on the faces of the United players and the umpire. However, replays seemed to contradict the verdict, painting a picture of the ball straightening after pitching rather than spinning away as Hawk-Eye suggested. Even static images of the impact point raised questions about the tracking’s accuracy.
For Shadab, this was the final straw. The normally composed leg-spinner, known for his calmness, unleashed his frustration in a post-match interview. “I think technology made a mistake,” he declared, his voice thick with anger. “The ball-tracking showed a different delivery. It was a match-changing moment. These mistakes should not happen in such a big tournament!”
Shadab’s anger resonates with the larger debate about DRS’s reliability. Players and fans alike have questioned the technology’s accuracy, especially in close calls. This incident also highlights the crucial role of technology in modern cricket, where margins are razor-thin and every decision can swing the momentum.
The controversial call proved decisive. Rossouw stayed on, anchoring a crucial partnership that took the Gladiators to victory. Islamabad United, left to rue the missed opportunity, is now facing an uphill battle in the tournament with just one win and two losses.
While the DRS debate rages on, the incident leaves several unanswered questions. Will there be an official response from the tournament organizers or the technology provider? Can we expect any improvements to the system’s accuracy? And most importantly, will Shadab’s outburst reignite a wider discussion about the role of technology in the beautiful game of cricket?
Ex Cricketers raised concerns on DRS blunder
Former Pakistan Cricketers also showed their concerns over this DRS mistake. Azhar Ali, Misbah Ul Haq, and Mohammad Hafeez looked not happy with this blunder.
“Poor decision from DRS! It’s beyond me as to how that was given not out, a massive decision that went wrong, and the technology was at fault. They clearly showed a different ball during the DRS, it was not the original ball,” said Azhar Ali on A Sports
“It was a blunder from DRS! I don’t know if the issue is with the production team or technology, but it was a wrong decision that cost Islamabad United the match. This type of blunder happened in a previous match too,” said Mohammad Hafeez in the Pavilion on A Sports
“The decision on DRS was wrong, it was the turning point of the match. Islamabad was upset and they lost due to the wrong technology call on review. Had Rossouw been lbw there, it would have been very tough for Quetta,” said Misbah Ul Haq
