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England and Australia still back DRS, says ICC
England and Australia still back the use of the Decision Review System (DRS) for the last two Tests of the Ashes series despite a string of controversies in the opening three games.
"We acknowledge the DRS has not performed as effectively during the past three Tests as it has in other series," International Cricket Council general manager Geoff Allardice said on the eve of the fourth Test in Durham.
Allardice talked to both teams on Wednesday "to identify potential improvements to DRS moving forward".
"It was very encouraging to hear both teams reiterate their support for the use of DRS. Some of the ideas that were suggested ... could improve the system and will be considered further by the ICC," said Allardice in a news release.
'Win the series outright'
England, who hold a 2-0 lead, have already retained the Ashes. Captain Alastair Cook reiterated on Thursday that the goal of his players was to win the series outright.
Allardice pledged the ICC would continue to do all it could to improve DRS after problems involving the technology and how the third umpire interprets what the system produces.
"Technology is evolving," he said. "During the (third) Test at Old Trafford we conducted a trial where a TV umpire accessed replays using a multi-channel monitor system with its own operator and recording device.
"The aim was to get more replay angles to the umpire faster so he will be able to make more accurate decisions and minimise delays to the game. The feedback from this trial has been very positive and we now need to consider how this technology could be most effectively used as part of the DRS system.
'Hot Spot is conclusive, when there is a mark'
"An ongoing area of focus for the ICC is the training of our TV umpires. Our elite panel training seminar next month will include several activities aimed at delivering more consistent interpretations of the images and sounds provided to the TV umpire.
"All these activities are aimed at ensuring the DRS continues to deliver an increase in the number of correct umpiring decisions," said Allardice.
The use of 'Hot Spot' has also come under the microscope during this series, with the technology sometimes failing to pick up edges from the batsmen. This was another issue Allardice discussed with England and Australia on Wednesday.
"It (Hot Spot) is conclusive, when there is a mark we know the bat has hit the ball," said the ICC's general manager.
"In working with the operator over several years we know the majority of edges are detected by Hot Spot but there are occasions when a fine edge isn't picked up.
"Either deflection or sound can be used by the TV umpire to make his final judgment," said Allardice.