What is Umpires Call in Cricket – Updated Guide 2025
Published on November 26, 2025
Cricket is a game where even tiny moments decide everything. Therefore, fans often get confused when the umpire’s original call stays despite the technology showing the ball touching the stumps. And that leads to one big question — what is umpires call in cricket. However, this rule isn’t totally new. It has been a part of the DRS system for years, trying to balance tech and human judgment. Meanwhile, it still causes debates in international matches.
Understanding DRS and Its Purpose
Decision Review System, known as DRS, helps correct obvious umpiring mistakes. Also, it gives teams a fair chance to challenge decisions. But technology like ball-tracking is not always perfect. Moreover, there is always a small error margin. This is why what is umpires call in cricket keeps coming up. Because in close LBW calls, the umpire’s decision gets extra importance if the ball is only clipping the stumps.
LBW and Why Umpire’s Call Exists
LBW decisions depend on predicting where the ball will end up. However, ball-tracking tools forecast the future path of the ball, which can be slightly inaccurate sometimes. Therefore, to avoid technology making a wrong decision, the ICC keeps the rule of Umpire’s Call. And fans start searching online — what is umpires call in cricket. Because they want to know why a batter stays Not Out even when Hawk-Eye shows the ball hitting the stumps slightly.
When Umpire’s Call Is Used
The rule applies only in marginal outcomes. Additionally, it is used when:
- Less than 50% of the ball is hitting the stumps
- Impact is partly outside the off stump
In short, the umpire’s original call stays. Also, the batting or bowling side keeps their review. Meanwhile, viewers sometimes get frustrated because they expected a different decision. And again wonder what is umpires call in cricket during tight match moments.
Table – What is Umpires Call in Cricket (ICC 2025)
The Logic Behind the Rule
Some people argue that technology should decide everything. However, ICC believes cricket still needs the umpire’s authority. Furthermore, ball-tracking systems can show slightly different outcomes depending on pitch and bounce. Therefore, what is umpires call in cricket is essential to avoid fully depending on machines. Also, it keeps the human feel of cricket alive.
Match Strategy and Reviews
Umpire’s Call does not waste a team’s review anymore. Moreover, this 2025 rule gives teams more confidence to take reviews when needed. Meanwhile, teams still need to think carefully. Because too many “unsuccessful but retained” reviews can confuse planning. Therefore, what is umpires call in cricket becomes a key strategic part of modern cricket.
ICC Clarifications Updated Till 2025
The ICC added more explanation graphics on stadium screens. Additionally, they train umpires with advanced simulator programs. However, players still sometimes argue with decisions. Also, commentators discuss changes after every big tournament. Meanwhile, ICC has not announced any plan to remove Umpire’s Call completely. Because what is umpires call in cricket still plays a vital balance role.
Controversies and Famous Moments
Big names like Virat Kohli, Joe Root, and Steve Smith have been part of controversial Umpire’s Call moments. However, excitement and arguments are part of the game. Therefore, social media goes crazy when fans see a ball clipping the stumps but batter survives. Also, dramatic World Cup and Ashes matches show how what is umpires call in cricket can change history.
Why It Still Matters in Cricket
Cricket is a sport built on fairness and margins. Therefore, if technology isn’t 100% accurate, the benefit should go to human judgment. Moreover, Umpire’s Call ensures on-field officials remain the main authority. Meanwhile, fans continue discussing whether the rule is fair. Also, experts say the rule keeps cricket unpredictable.
Read more: What Is BGT in Cricket and Why It Matters Today
Future Possibilities — Will It Stay?
As technology grows smarter, ICC might modify the rule later. However, no major change is expected before the 2025 World Test Championship Final or the 2025 Champions Trophy. Therefore, players and fans must understand what is umpires call in cricket. Also, the debate will continue. Because cricket always evolves, step by step.
FAQs (Short Answers)
Q1: What is the umpire's call in cricket?
It means the original on-field decision remains when DRS shows a marginal result.
Q2: What does DRS mean in cricket?
It means Decision Review System, used to review umpiring decisions.
Q3: What is called an umpire?
An umpire is the official who controls the match and gives decisions.
Q4: What does umpire mean in cricket?
It means the person who ensures fair play and decides outs or not-outs.