Oz media calls for umpires' development in wake of DRS controversy

The Australian media has called for a greater investment to produce and develop better umpires for the technological age following the constantly increasing controversy surrounding the Decision Review System (DRS).

According to News.com.au, technology and umpiring dominated the Ashes series yet again after Ian Bell was declared not-out even though he appeared to be caught by Steve Smith during the third day of the second Test at Lord's, which, however looked clear from beyond the boundary and equally clear on replay.

Stating that Bell was saved by TV umpire Tony Hill's inability to use the DRS properly, instead of the technology itself, the report said that no LBW catches will ever be out if this catch was not out, adding that umpires needed to learn how to quickly and efficiently use the system so that decision making is completely taken out of the hands of the players

According to the report, depth of field problems can often distort a low catch on television and players know it, adding that if they hang around there is every chance the video umpire will rule in their favour because the catch is inconclusive.

The report further said that even though players are entitled to stand their ground and wait for the umpire's decision under the law, there comes a time when they are should go if they are clearly out, adding that this is a poor reflection on the umpiring too.

Decisions should be a lot better than they have in this series by on field and video umpires, the report added.