Reviews to be increased after 80 overs and DRS to stay

While the criticism for the DRS is on the upswing, the ICC has decided to continue with the system

After its Chief Executives’ Meeting (CEC) in Dubai on Wednesday, the ICC has decided to add two more reviews to the team’s quota of the two reviews available already once the team, either the batting or bowling team, completes eighty overs in a Test innings.

At present, only two unsuccessful reviews are allowed for a team in each innings. The ICC has decided to increase the number of reviews after receiving suggestions from the ICC Cricket Committee.

Among the other significant decisions taken at the meeting include persisting with the rule concerning two new balls from either ends in ODIs and to bring in harsher penalties for time-wasting, poor over rates and to take steps that can actualise maximum playing time in secure playing conditions.

However, for an ODI cut down to 25 overs or less before the beginning of an innings, only one new ball will be employed.

All these changes will come into effect from October 1, 2013.

With respect to the Decision Review System, that created a lot of controversies in the just concluded Ashes 2013, the ICC announced that a working group will be formed to arrive at the conclusion that can enable the use of technology in the most effective way.

The ICC also confirmed that the World Test Championship will be starting in Dubai from October as scheduled.