DRS Unavailability Disrupts IPL Qualifier 2 Match between Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad

During the recent IPL Qualifier 2 match between Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, a significant disruption occurred when the Decision Review System (DRS) was unexpectedly unavailable. The incident unfolded during the fourth over of Rajasthan’s innings, bowled by Pat Cummins.

Both teams were promptly informed about the DRS malfunction, leading to a brief period of uncertainty and strategic adjustments. Despite the unavailability of ball tracking and full DRS during that initial phase, the game continued with Rajasthan Royals facing the challenge without the assistance of this crucial technology.

It wasn’t until the fifth over of the innings, when T. Natarajan took the ball to bowl, that the DRS functionality was restored. This reinstatement brought a sense of relief and fairness back to the match, allowing for a more balanced playing field and decision-making process.

Interestingly, neither Rajasthan Royals nor Sunrisers Hyderabad opted for a review during the DRS blackout period. Despite the absence of this review system, the game proceeded with intensity and competitiveness, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of both teams.

This incident of DRS unavailability harks back to a similar occurrence during the IPL in 2022, when Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings faced a comparable challenge at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. Such technical glitches serve as reminders of the reliance and impact of advanced technological tools in modern cricket.