Shubman Gill in WTC Final: First controversial decision since the removal of Soft Signal?

While the Indian batters employ their skills in the mammoth chase of 444 against Australia in the WTC 2023 final, the internet seems quite invested in Shubman Gill's dismissal. The opening batsman was adjudged caught in the slips when Cameron Green and Co. claimed a catch that looked slightly iffy at first glance. 

Also Read:

With the ball perched precariously close to the ground in between Green's two fingers, the on-field umpires were compelled to consult third umpire Richard Kettleborough who, upon careful examination with the help of the available camera angles, declared that it was a fair catch. The giant screen at The Oval would read OUT in bold letters, drawing an awkward response from the crowd that's dominated by Indian supporters. 

The commentary panel, too, would deliberate on this with legends Ricky Ponting and Kumar Sangakkara expressing uncertainty over Kettleborough's decision, with the latter bringing in the crucial naked-eye interpretation that normally inserts in the minds of on-field umpires.

But, quite interestingly, the two umpires present on the ground are no longer in possession of the power to make a call during such scenarios of doubt. Earlier, the soft signal was allowed to come into play which meant that the same 'apparent' impression could come into play. 

The order of decision-making, previously, dictated that on-field umpires would first give their verdict based on mutual discussion and immediate thoughts, popularly known as the Soft Signal. The Third Umpire's job is to then find irrefutable, conclusive evidence and in cases when he/she doesn't find that, the on-field decision is upheld.

But this becomes a moot point because the soft signal is no longer a part of the decision-making process. The International Cricket Council, or ICC, removed the soft signal regulation from its playing conditions and this decision was brought into effect at the start of June 2023. The recent Test match between England and Ireland became the first game to have the crucial modification in play, with Shubman Gill's controversial dismissal now prompting a look back at its impact. 

So, if you are wondering why the on-field umpires weren't involved in arriving at the OUT call, the reason is they are no longer allowed to intervene.

While the soft signal certainly carried its own share of demerits, one wonders what influence it would have had on the proceedings, considering how it unfolded in the past. Did the on-field umpires have a rare better view of the catch as opposed to the limited vantage point that the third umpire did? And if yes, could they have exercised more control had the soft signal been still part of the playing conditions? Well, that's too many ifs and buts at this point but it would be quite interesting to see how Shubman Gill's dismissal affects India's chase. Staying tuned, we are!