Prior to his 50th birthday, legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar discussed the game’s faults, focusing on the numerous rule changes that have occurred in the last few years. Notably, spinners are no longer permitted to use saliva to polish the ball, and the introduction of two new balls in ODI cricket has drastically reduced the potential for reverse swing.
Regarding all of these issues, the maestro stated that the game is becoming increasingly complicated as time passes because the regulations are constantly evolving. He also commented on the infamous ‘umpire’s call’ rule, stating that he does not comprehend the reasoning behind it, as the batter or bowler conveys a clear signal that he or she disagrees with the decision of the umpires on the field.
If we have a set of rules and stick to them, and if they function well, then cricket will not be that complicated. According to News18’s quote from Sachin Tendulkar, “To be fair, we also have three different formats; there aren’t many sports where you have different formats; I can’t think of anything else, if any.”
“I honestly do not comprehend what they are thinking. I believe a ball is out if it hits any part of the obstruction. This applies to both teams; it’s not as if ‘team A’ uses technology while ‘team B’ relies on the on-field umpire. When we go to the third umpire, it is evident to me that someone on the field disagrees with the previous decision. They want to go upstairs for this reason, so why would they return to someone they don’t trust?”
Interestingly, the Master Blaster compared the situation to mixing tea and coffee, reiterating that it is like mixing tea and coffee when it comes to challenging an on-field umpire’s decision by requesting assistance from the Third Umpire to determine the final verdict of a potentially contentious or ambiguous decision. Therefore, he believed that it was illogical for the on-field umpire to render the final decision, particularly in situations where the Decision Review System (DRS) is applicable.
They have taken the risk of disputing his decision, and if they don’t get it right, they will lose their review. So why do we continue to return? We have no need to return. Currently, both tea and coffee are in the same cup: “Thoda chai daal do, thoda coffee bhi daal do.” In response to a question regarding the umpire’s call regulation, the former cricketer stated, “It doesn’t work for me.”
During a catch, Sachin Tendulkar concurred with the ‘No change of strikes’ rule.
The former cricketer also expressed his satisfaction with the rule that prohibits batters from changing their strokes during a catch. Invoking the example of the West Indian power hitter Kieron Pollard, Sachin explained why this was a wise decision for the future.
“Yes, I concur with that. I concur because, if a number 10 is batting and I have a big hitter at the non-striker’s end, let’s say Kieron Pollard, why should Kieron Pollard confront the next ball despite the bowler picking a wicket? Thus, this is an excellent introduction,” he continued.
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