The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have long been critics of the Decision Review System (DRS), but with recent improvements in ball-tracking technology and change in captain and coach, they have embraced the system on a trial basis for the upcoming Test series against England.
Speaking on the eve of the first Test of the five-match series, Indian captain Virat Kohli mentioned that he is not too bothered about India’s lack of experience in using the system. India have previously used DRS in just two Test series, with the last time being in 2011 during a tour to England.
Since then, the Indians have come across the system only at ICC tournaments.
“Well there is no rocket science on DRS. As a cricketer you understand, you have a fair idea of where the ball has hit the pad, whether it has pitched in line or hit in line. Those are pretty basic things in cricket,” Kohli said.
“You don’t have to necessarily go through a course for DRS. I think we have observed enough watching on TV how DRS is used. It really depends on what the bowler and a wicket-keeper, most importantly, think about the particular event or if a referral has to be made.
“It is pretty simple. It’s nothing that we are focusing too much on. It just gives you another opportunity to check on a decision if you feel is not right. And I think that’s pretty fair.”
The 28-year-old has time and again spoken about adopting an aggressive attitude in Test matches and he further reiterated that on Tuesday. He wants the Indian players to bring their ‘A’ game to a series which they have been really looking forward to.
“The mindset is not (just) to compete anymore. We want to win series, we want to win Test matches. For that, you have to be at your A game all the time and also keep improving on your A game as well. That’s been the mindset and the guys are ready for the challenge.” Kohli added.
“These kinds of matches and series are something that you play for. Against top sides, it tests your character, tests your skill, and you come out as a better cricketer regardless of the results, so that’s something we’re really looking forward to.”
