DRS in Ranji matches: BCA claims credit

Vadodara: If a batsman feels that he has been wrongly given out or if a bowler is convinced that the batsman is out but the umpire doesn’t agree, he can now use the decision review system (DRS). The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to introduce the DRS in live Ranji matches from the upcoming season.
Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) has claimed credit for this. “We had made suggestion to the BCCI to include DRS in the Ranji matches last year but it didn’t go through for various reasons. But we were convinced that DRS should be kept in the live Ranji matches,” said Snehal Parikh, BCA secretary (in-charge).
“So we decided to make the suggestion again this year. The BCA management wrote to the BCCI making various suggestions and DRS in Ranji live matches was one of them. The suggestion was discussed in the BCCI meet at Mumbai last week and the board decided to introduce DRS in live Ranji matches,” Parikh told TOI.
When asked why the BCA had pushed for DRS in Ranji matches, Parikh said, “Ranji Trophy is highest level of first-class cricket and many matches in this tournament are close. Sometimes one incorrect umpiring decision can affect the match result or any cricketer’s career. Having DRS gives the team a chance to appeal against the on-field umpire’s decision. It will be beneficial for the game,” Parikh added.