IPL introduces new technology to make reviews quicker and more precise for 17th season

The upcoming IPL season (2024) is set to introduce a new technology called the Smart Replay System in its 17th season, as per ESPNCricinfo. This system aims to improve the accuracy and speed of on-field decisions, particularly when it comes to reviewing controversial calls.

Here's Smart Replay System will Work

Two Hawk-Eye operators will be positioned in the same room as the TV umpire. These operators will have access to footage captured by eight high-speed cameras strategically placed around the ground.  Previously, the TV broadcast director relayed information between the umpire and the Hawk-Eye operators. However, the Smart Replay System removes the director from the loop, allowing for more direct communication.

This new approach offers several advantages. The TV umpire will have access to a wider range of visuals than ever before, including split-screen comparisons. For instance, imagine a close call on a boundary catch, where it's unclear if the fielder had their foot grounded when catching the ball. Under the old system, showing both the hands and feet simultaneously might have been difficult. With the Smart Replay System, a split-screen can display synchronized footage of the catch alongside the fielder's feet, enabling the umpire to make a more informed decision.

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The Smart Replay System offers another key benefit: clarifying close calls on overthrows that go for boundaries. Imagine a scenario similar to the controversial overthrow that occurred in the 2019 World Cup final. Previously, determining if the batters had crossed before the ball was released was difficult for the TV umpire because the broadcaster couldn't seamlessly combine the necessary footage. The Smart Replay System changes that. With split-screen technology, the umpire can now see synchronized visuals of the fielder releasing the ball alongside the batters' position at the crease, allowing for a more definitive decision.

Here's a deeper dive into how the system utilizes Hawk-Eye technology. Each IPL match utilizes eight strategically placed Hawk-Eye cameras – two on each side of the ground for the straight boundaries and two on each side near the square of the wicket. Before IPL 2024, these cameras were primarily used for tracking the ball (ball tracking) and detecting edges (UltraEdge). In simpler terms, for anything outside of LBWs and edges, the broadcaster relied on their own cameras for replays during on-field referrals. This included situations like stumpings, run-outs, catches, and overthrows.

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The Smart Replay System changes this workflow for referrals like stumpings. The TV umpire can now directly request a split-screen view from the Hawk-Eye operators. If the split-screen clearly shows a gap between the bat and the ball when it passes, the umpire can bypass UltraEdge (checking for a caught behind) and proceed straight to a side-on replay to confirm the stumping. Conversely, if the split-screen doesn't show a definitive gap, only then will the umpire resort to using UltraEdge for further analysis.

The Smart Replay System is expected to be a game-changer for debatable catches, particularly those taken just above the ground. These referrals have often caused frustration due to inconclusive video evidence. Previously, the TV umpire relied on the director to find the "best angle" from the broadcaster's cameras. Even zoomed-in replays sometimes left room for doubt about whether the ball bounced before being caught or if the fielder had complete control. The Smart Replay System promises to address this issue by offering more than just the best available angle.

The 17th season of the IPL will see the debut of the Smart Replay System.  Around 15 umpires, both domestic and international, will be trained and equipped to utilize this technology throughout the tournament, which kicks off on March 22nd.

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Hawk-Eye cameras are a familiar sight in cricket, with eight strategically placed around the ground – two on each side of the square leg and two on each side along the straight boundaries.  Previously, these cameras were primarily used for ball tracking and UltraEdge (detecting faint edges).  For any other on-field referral, like stumpings, run-outs, catches, and overthrows, the broadcaster relied on their own camera footage.

The Smart Replay System changes this workflow.  Now, these situations will also be reviewed using Hawk-Eye technology.  In the case of a stumping referral, the TV umpire can request a split-screen view from the Hawk-Eye operators.  This will effectively show a single frame from both side-on and front-on cameras, giving the umpire a more comprehensive picture.

Adding to the transparency, there's a chance that the conversations between the TV umpire and the Hawk-Eye operator might be aired live. This would allow viewers to gain a deeper understanding of the thought process behind crucial decisions.

The Smart Replay System isn't entirely new - the England Cricket Board (ECB) experimented with a similar referral system in The Hundred competition.  With its implementation in the IPL, this technology promises to improve the accuracy and efficiency of on-field decisions, ultimately enhancing the viewing experience for cricket fans worldwide.

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