The Review System (DRS) in Real Cricket Explained
A review lets you ask for a second look at an umpire's decision. You get a limited number, so use them on clear mistakes, not hopes.
What a review is
In cricket, the on-field umpire makes the first call. If a team thinks it is wrong, it can ask for a review.
Technology then helps check the decision. This is usually called DRS, or the decision review system.
What the technology checks
Reviews look at a few things:
- Ball tracking. Would the ball have hit the stumps?
- Edge detection. Did the ball touch the bat?
- Replays. Was the catch clean?
Which tools a game includes depends on the version. Check the match rules in the game itself.
Umpire's call, explained
This is the part that confuses many fans.
When a decision is very close, the original on-field call stays. It doesn't change, even if the review looks slightly in favour of the other side.
That's why a review can look right but still fail. A tiny part of the ball may be clipping the stumps, and it isn't enough to change the call.
When to use a review
You have a limited number. Use them well.
- Review when you're sure there was an edge.
- Review when the ball was clearly missing the stumps.
- Review when a catch looked clean to the replay.
- Don't review a lost cause just because you can.
- Save one review for later in the innings.
Common review mistakes
Players often waste reviews. Avoid:
- Reviewing every close lbw.
- Reviewing late in a hopeless chase.
- Using the last review early.
- Forgetting the timer.
A smart review can save a key batter or take a key wicket. Think of it as a small token you spend once.
A real example of a smart review
Imagine a ball hits your pad and the umpire says out. You feel the ball was going over the stumps. You have two reviews left.
You use one. The replay shows the ball was missing the stumps. The batter stays. That is a good review.
Now imagine the ball was clearly going to hit the middle stump. Reviewing would waste the call.
Think like a captain
A captain thinks about the whole innings. Do not use all reviews in the first ten overs. Keep one for a key player or a tight finish.
Practice makes it easy
Play a few matches where you only use reviews on clear errors. You will soon get a feel for what is worth a review.
Stay calm after a lost review
A lost review hurts. But it is only one decision.
Take a breath. Think about what you learned. Was the ball closer than you thought? Did you hurry? Use the lesson next time. Do not let it spoil your focus.
Reviews and strategy
Reviews are a part of your wicket-taking plan. Read how to take wickets to see where they fit. In long games, think about them over a full day, as in our Test match guide. And for tournament play, see the tournaments overview.
Quick questions
How many reviews do I get?
It depends on the format and the version. Check the match settings.
Does a lost review hurt me?
Usually you lose one review from your count. Check the rules in the game.