In a keynote speech at ‘Sport and Technology – The Conference’ in London, Speed said that the ICC is at the forefront of the debate in balancing new technology with its impact on the substance and spirit of the game.
“While many of the innovations are terrific for TV and help the armchair viewer’s enjoyment of the match, it doesn’t follow that these will also help the umpires improve their percentage of correct decisions.
“If some of the current innovations were brought into the decision-making process they could have a dramatic impact on the way that the game is played. It is the international governing body’s role to get this balance right.
“Since the ICC first made the availability of a TV referral process for line decisions part of its standard playing conditions in international cricket in 1995, we have reviewed, tried and tested many innovations and evolved our viewpoint along the way.”
But he stressed the importance of the umpire. “The body of research that we have built up over the last decade has led us to develop a clear position on technology,” he said.
“The ICC’s view is that we want humans to umpire the game, not robots. It is essential that the umpires are in control and not simply glorified coat stands.
He added that ICC analysis of the members of the Emirates Elite Panel of ICC Umpires showed that they get more that 94 per cent of decisions correct.
He added that technology would only be introduced if it provided conclusive answers; is feasible to introduce for all international cricket; will not change the essence of the way the game is played (the technique of batting or bowling); and will not compromise the role of the on-field umpires.
