The introduction of technology into cricket has not been a smooth one. The phrase ‘to err is human’ was precisely why cricketers and cricket administrators around the world felt that with modern technology, the chances of a human error will be adequately solved.
Furthermore, the introduction of stump mics, spider cams, DRS, snickometers will bring about transparency and excitement to the television viewers, who are growing in millions.
The multi-media relay of ‘live’ cricket brought the game so much closer and made it interesting to watch. This led to a commercial bonanza for the business of cricket. And in bringing entertainment to attract more eye balls, technology development is progressing more towards non-cricket activities rather than to focus on the actual game of cricket.
The stump mic, which remained mute for the viewing public earlier, has now become the new play toy of the game. Listening to the banter, remarks and sledging between cricketers during the game has made the life of a viewer exciting but rather stifling for a cricketer.
After all, hearsay and gossip has always found its presence in the first page of a tabloid. A chatter and a few caustic remarks have always been a part of the game of cricket for well over a century. Sledging, as one popularly calls it, has been prominent in cricket from school cricket to the very top level of the game.
Although a lot has been said about sledging recently, at most times, amongst the cricketers, it has been more in fun than with any personal malice.
Cricket is a slow and time consuming game and to have 13 mute cricketers would definitely make it into a boring affair. A day in the field does need some wordy amusement to all out there in the middle.
The famous words of William Shakespeare come to one’s mind: “To be or not to be, that is the question”.
The stump mic technology may provide entertainment but it needs to be monitored correctly. Every person reacts differently in adverse conditions. One cannot expect each person to have a cool and collected temperament. Meaningless words are spoken and the hurtful personal remarks should be dealt with behind the scene, rather than making it into a public affair.
Technology in cricket is leading to confusion at times. The uncertain factors are compensated by the ‘umpire’s call’ and so this brings in inconsistency. The idea of half the ball hitting the stump or landing in line with the wicket makes the process quite ridiculous. The ball hitting the stump, whether full, half or quarter should make no difference.
Unfortunately, umpires have now started depending a lot on technology as a decision solver. Cricket, as a sport has stood for fair-play. Technology has a major part to play in bringing about transparency and correctness. The ICC has to show more zest in implementing technology and in enhancing its development.