The decision review system, popularly known as DRS, has been under the radar since its introduction into the game for the first time in Test cricket in 2008. Another incident where DRS likely caught a batsman off guard occurred during the second over. test match between South Africa and Pakistanwhere a controversial decision not only led to expulsion but also probably changed the outcome of the match.
Shan Masood’s perspective on the DRS sacking
Shan MasoodThe sending off in the Cape Town Test match came as the visitors inched backwards after falling behind in the first innings. South Africa imposed a follow-on and Pakistan in their second innings got off to a solid start due to a 205-run opening wicket partnership between Babar Azam and Masod.
On Day 4, Masood was a constant pillar of stability in the second innings amidst a steady fall of wickets from the other end. However, his impeccable innings of 145 runs ended as you are the cats he bowled a low delivery aimed at the platforms of the Pakistani captains. After the camp rejected lbw’s appeal, the South African captain Temba Bavuma He took a review that changed the course of the game. Tracking the ball during the review showed the impact of the ball being in line and the ball hitting the stumps. The on-field umpire was therefore asked to reverse his decision, leading to Masood’s dismissal. The Pakistan captain was visibly frustrated with the decision when he returned to the pavilion with his team still 92 runs behind South Africa’s first innings total.
After the match, Masood shared his disappointment with the decision during a post-match discussion. The Pakistani captain said he was “baffled” by the decision to dismiss him. Without Masood, the Pakistani innings fell from 329/5 to 478, giving the home team a target of just 61 runs which they achieved without losing any wicket.
“It’s simple. He was a swinger. If you see the ball that hit me, it went a long way. I got hit on the outside edge and showed up as an inswinger. To be honest, that baffled me. At first glance, you could see that it also felt like it was out of line.” Masood said in the post-match presentation.
Additionally, Masood said it is now up to administrators to see if it was a fair decision or not. However, according to Masood, the technology did not show the correct trajectory of the ball that took his wicket.
“It’s up to the administrators to see if it’s a fair decision or not, but I certainly felt like the technology didn’t show the trajectory of that ball.” Masood concluded.
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South Africa consolidates its position in the WTC classification
South Africa’s emphatic 10-wicket victory over Pakistan in the second Test has further solidified their near-invincible run in the 2023-25 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. With 8 wins, 3 draws and only one defeat in 12 matches, the Proteas remain at the top of the standings, showing their dominance in the longest format of the game. Their only loss in this cycle was against India In January 2024 during the Freedom Trophy. South Africa’s all-round performances, marked by great batting depth and a lethal bowling attack, have made them favorites heading into the final.
They are destined to collide with Australiawho secured their place by defeating India in the closely contested Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. Australia’s consistent performances and tactical prowess have set the stage for an exciting final. The WTC final will be played in June at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground and promises an epic showdown between two of the world’s best Test teams.