Slamming the umpiring standards in the Indian domestic cricket, Punjab captain Mandeep Singh has called for Decision Review System (DRS) in the domestic circuit to improve the game’s quality.
Mandeep’s comments came after Punjab team had to settle with a solitary point while conceding the first-innings lead in a drawn match while Delhi bagged three points after persistent rain forced the umpires to call off the match at IS Bindra Stadium on Monday (January 6).
In the controversial Ranji Trophy 2019-20 match, Punjab had to face two contentious decisions involving opener Shubman Gill in both innings with the first one was overturned after the player argued with the umpire, and second one the caught-behind decision in the second innings, given by the same umpire to the young batman against Delhi.
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While Punjab are leading the Elite Group A and B with 18 pints at the moment, Mandeep, who is currently the second-highest scorer in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2020 with 474 runs at an average of 158, wasn’t really impressed with the umpiring standard, as Gill’s wicket would have crucial for his team to earn more points against Delhi.
Mandeep told TOI, “There is no harm in raising valid questions. Every cricketer talks about the standard of umpiring in domestic games in private. But I don't know why they don't speak up? I don’t know what the other captains are saying but I know when we talk to each other, everyone is in favor of having DRS in the domestic cricket.”
He further added, “In this match, Shubman Gill got a bad decision twice. When teams like Punjab and Delhi play, you just can't expect such howlers. It breaks the confidence of players. The DRS system should be introduced in the domestic circuit.”
About his own shown in the ongoing season, Mandeep signed off by saying: “Last season, I was taking too much pressure of leading the team. This year, the idea has been to play with positive intent. I have worked on my technique also, especially playing on front foot and defense.”
(With TOI/Hindustan Times Inputs)
