WTC 2023: Game Changer! ICC Bids Farewell to Soft Signal Rule, Unveils New Approach for the mega event

WTC 2023: A significant update has emerged as the International Cricket Council (ICC) reveals its decision to abolish the soft signal rule, effective from the World Test Championship (WTC) final on May 15. Furthermore, the ICC has introduced several revisions to its rulebook in preparation for the highly anticipated showdown between India and Australia, commencing on June 7 at The Oval in London.

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Soft-Signal Rule facing wrath of debates

Amidst scrutiny surrounding the soft signal rule, which allows the on-field umpire to seek the opinion of the third umpire when uncertain about making a conclusive decision, officials have often upheld the original decision made by the on-field umpire, known as the soft signal, when the replay fails to provide clear evidence. However, due to several controversial decisions made by umpires, this rule has come under scrutiny.

During a Test match between Australia and South Africa in January 2023, a remarkable incident unfolded when the third umpire overturned the on-field umpire’s soft signal from out to not-out. South Africa’s Simon Harmer executed a magnificent catch at slip to dismiss Australia’s Marnus Labuschagne. However, the catch presented a challenging situation for the on-field umpire as the ball and Harmer’s fingers appeared to touch the grass simultaneously. Initially, the on-field umpire signaled out, but despite the lack of conclusive evidence in the replays, the third umpire controversially ruled it as not out.

Following the test match, Ben Stokes had said, “ICC should get rid of the soft signal and let the 3rd umpire who has all the technology make the decision when the on-field umpires send it upstairs, all the controversy is always around the soft signal given. This isn’t a comment on the decision FYI (sic).”

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Other new rules for WTC 2023 final

In anticipation of the upcoming WTC final and the subsequent Ashes 2023, the ICC has implemented two additional modifications to its rulebook. Firstly, floodlights will be utilized in situations where natural light is insufficient. Secondly, teams will now have a reserve day (the sixth day) allocated for one-off Test matches.

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