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Reviews help mind over matter

DHAKA: The Umpire Decision Review System (UDRS) may have drawn flak at the World Cup, but Bangladesh players say it helps in winning mind games even if the appeal is rejected.

Seamer Shafiul Islam, who claimed a match-winning four for 21 against Ireland last Friday, said asking for a review helps gain a psychological edge over opposing batsmen.

“You can always make the batsman nervous,” the bowler said. “In the Ireland game, I had an unsuccessful review against Kevin O'Brien. But I am sure it made him nervous.”

It was on Shafiul's nudging that batting partner Abdur Razzak asked for a review — and won a reprieve — after being given out leg-before in the same match.

“It was a huge relief when I saw the ‘not out' decision flash on the big screen,” said Razzak.

Star opener Tamim Iqbal has told teammates to take the advice of the non-striker before asking for a review while batting. “These reviews are very important for us,” Tamim said. “You have only two reviews in an innings, you can't afford to waste them. “Batsmen should first discuss with the non-striker before asking for a review. Only if they are sure the ball has touched the bat should they review a leg-before on their own.”

Bowlers are told to consult wicket-keeper Mushfiqur Rahim before calling for a review.

The UDRS, which allows teams to question an official's on-field decision, is being used for the first time at the World Cup. — AFP

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