Summary
The third umpire sits off the field with access to TV replays and technology, assisting with run-outs, stumpings, catches, boundaries, and DRS reviews.
Full Explanation
The third umpire was first introduced in 1992 during a Test between India and South Africa. Initially, the role was limited to run-out and stumping decisions referred by the on-field umpires.
The role has expanded significantly:
Automatic referrals (third umpire checks without being asked): - All boundary decisions (was the ball touched before crossing the rope?) - Front-foot no-balls (since 2016) - Run-outs on the last ball of an innings
On-field umpire referrals: - Run-outs and stumpings - Caught decisions (was it a clean catch?) - Boundary decisions (did the fielder touch the rope?)
DRS reviews: - Third umpire manages the entire DRS process - Reviews ball tracking, UltraEdge, and video evidence - Makes final decision and communicates to on-field umpires
The soft signal (where the on-field umpire gave a preliminary signal of out or not out for catches) was removed in 2022 after widespread criticism.
Key Points
- •First used in 1992 (India vs South Africa Test)
- •Now checks front-foot no-balls automatically
- •Manages DRS review process
- •Soft signal removed in 2022
- •Has access to all camera angles, ball tracking, and UltraEdge
Notable Controversies
- •Soft signal controversy — finally removed in 2022
- •Inconsistent decisions when TV evidence is inconclusive
- •Some feel the third umpire should have more autonomy to correct obvious errors
Related Rules
Decision Review System (DRS)
A technology-based system that allows players to challenge on-field umpiring decisions using ball-tracking, UltraEdge, and video replays.
UltraEdge / Snickometer
Sound-based technology that detects edges by analyzing audio waveforms alongside video footage, used in DRS for caught-behind and LBW decisions.