2013 · GS Paper 3 · Q15 · 10 marks
What do you understand by Umpire Decision Review System in Cricket ? Discuss its various components. Explain how silicone tape on the edge of a bat may fool the system ?
In short
The Umpire Decision Review System lets teams challenge on-field decisions, which the third umpire checks using replays, Hawk-Eye ball-tracking, Hot Spot and UltraEdge. Silicone tape on a bat's edge reduces the friction heat that Hot Spot's infrared cameras detect, so a faint edge leaves no mark.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 272 words
Review and third umpire
A "T" signal within 15 seconds sends the decision upstairs, with limited unsuccessful reviews per innings.
Replays
Slow-motion footage checks no-balls, catches and whether bat or pad was hit first.
Ball-tracking
Hawk-Eye triangulates the ball's path to project whether it would hit the stumps, keeping "umpire's call" for marginal cases.
Edge detection
Hot Spot's infrared cameras show friction heat as a white mark, and UltraEdge matches stump-microphone sound to video.
Heat is the signal
Hot Spot detects only a rise in temperature, and a fine edge leaves just a faint mark.
Slippery coating
Smooth silicone tape lets the ball glide off the edge with less frictional heat and may insulate the willow, so no spot appears.
Ashes 2013 row
Australian media alleged batsmen used such tape to beat Hot Spot, which Kevin Pietersen denied.
Remedy
Using sound-based UltraEdge alongside Hot Spot and limiting bat coverings narrows the loophole.
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Question from the official UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2013 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.