The International Cricket Council (ICC) has made a significant decision to remove the controversial ‘soft signal’ rule employed by on-field officials. The rule had faced criticism from experts for causing confusion among TV umpires when decisions were referred for review.
The ‘soft signal’ was utilized to determine the legitimacy of catches taken close to the ground, which couldn’t always be conclusively confirmed by the naked eye. Until now, the on-field umpire would provide a ‘out’ or ‘not out’ signal based on their instinct, and the third umpire was bound to abide by the ‘soft signal’ as most video replays proved inconclusive.
Following the approval of recommendations from the men’s cricket committee, led by former India captain Sourav Ganguly, and the women’s cricket committee, the ICC has announced changes to the playing conditions.
“The major change involves the elimination of the soft signal, with umpires no longer required to give a soft signal when referring decisions to the TV umpire. The on-field umpires will now consult with the TV umpire before making any decisions,” stated the ICC.
Sourav Ganguly emphasized the discussions on soft signals that took place during previous cricket committee meetings over the past few years. The committee concluded that soft signals were unnecessary and sometimes confusing, especially when the replays of catches seemed inconclusive. Ganguly further added, “We also discussed player safety, which is very important for us.”
In addition to scrapping the soft signal rule, the ICC also introduced a new mandate regarding the use of helmets in high-risk positions. Batters facing fast bowlers, wicketkeepers standing up to the stumps, and fielders positioned close to the batter in front of the wicket will now be required to wear helmets. Ganguly highlighted the committee’s decision to prioritize player safety by making helmets mandatory in certain positions.
Another minor change was made to the free hit rule. Runs scored off a free hit will now be counted even if the ball hits the stumps, enabling batters to be bowled off a free hit and still attempt a run.
These changes will come into effect on June 1, 2023, starting with the Lord’s Test between England and Ireland, a four-day one-off match. The subsequent World Test Championship final between India and Australia, beginning on June 7, will also adhere to these new playing conditions.
