ICC to trial broadcast of umpire communications for fans

Umpires Billy Bowden (L) and Richard Kettleborough walks onto ground to start day three of the first test cricket match between Sri Lanka and South Africa in Galle July 18, 2014. REUTERS/Dinuka Liyanawatte/Files

REUTERS - Cricket fans will soon be able to experience what their rugby counterparts enjoy after the game's governing body decided to trial the broadcast of conversations between match officials for important decisions. Viewers and spectators will be able to hear the consultations between the on-field and television umpires during the upcoming one-day international series between Australia and South Africa, the International Cricket Council (ICC) said on Wednesday. The umpire communications during referrals, consultations and player reviews might be extended to some matches during next year's World Cup if the trial was successful. "For years, viewers have enjoyed seeing the same pictures as the TV umpire and making their own decisions during a referral or review," Geoff Allardice, ICC general manager cricket, said in a statement. "Now they will be even closer to the game, hearing what the umpire is saying when making those decisions." Australia and New Zealand will co-host the 50-over World Cup from Feb. 14-Mar. 29. (Writing by Sudipto Ganguly; Editing by John O'Brien)