Archive · 23 Dec 2025
Starc Criticizes ICC Over DRS Technology
During the third Ashes Test in Adelaide, there was a lot of confusion and frustration about the Snicko technology used in the Decision Review System (DRS).
This technology helps umpires decide if the ball hit the bat.
Australian player Mitchell Starc criticized the International Cricket Council (ICC) for not using the same technology everywhere and for not paying for it.
He said this causes confusion and frustration.
Two different technologies are currently used: RTS in Australia and UltraEdge in other competitions.
Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting prefers UltraEdge, while current captain Pat Cummins finds the technology used in Australia inconsistent.
These issues affected decisions during the match, leading to mixed feelings among players and fans.
The ECB and Cricket Australia plan to lobby the ICC to review its protocols and systems.
The ICC has two approved sound-based edge detection technologies, but the inconsistencies have led to calls for standardization.
Mitchell Starc criticized the ICC for not standardizing DRS technology across all series.
Two different sound-based edge detection technologies are used: RTS in Australia and UltraEdge globally.
Ricky Ponting prefers UltraEdge, while Pat Cummins finds the RTS technology inconsistent.
Snicko errors led to controversial decisions, affecting both teams during the third Ashes Test.
Starc suggested that the ICC should pay for and standardize DRS technology to reduce confusion.
- Who
- Mitchell Starc, ICC, Ricky Ponting, Pat Cummins, ECB, CA
- What
- Controversy over DRS technology (Snicko) in the third Ashes Test
- When
- During the third Ashes Test in Adelaide
- Where
- Adelaide, Australia
- Why
- Inconsistencies and errors in Snicko technology led to frustration and calls for standardization
Standardization Advocates
Current System Supporters
Technology Standardization
Standardization Advocates
Mitchell Starc and Ricky Ponting argue for a single, standardized DRS technology across all series to reduce confusion and frustration.
Current System Supporters
The ICC and Pat Cummins acknowledge the inconsistencies but do not explicitly advocate for a change, focusing on the current system's operational challenges.
Technology Preference
Standardization Advocates
Ricky Ponting prefers UltraEdge, citing its reliability and suggesting that RTS is less trustworthy.
Current System Supporters
Pat Cummins notes differences between RTS and UltraEdge but does not express a strong preference, accepting the current system's inconsistencies.
- Event
- Third Ashes Test in Adelaide
- Controversial Technology
- Snicko (RTS and UltraEdge)
- Key Player
- Mitchell Starc
- ICC's Stance
- Approved two sound-based edge detection technologies
- Players' Views
- Ricky Ponting prefers UltraEdge; Pat Cummins finds inconsistencies
- ECB and CA Action
- Plan to lobby ICC to review DRS protocols and systems
- Technology Providers
- RTS (Australia) and UltraEdge (rest of the world)
- Operator Error
- BBG Sports admitted to an error that led to an incorrect reprieve for Alex Carey
