Pakistan-Bangladesh T20 Series to Be Played Without DRS

Umpiring Decisions Under Scrutiny Again

May 28, 2025

8 min read

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Pakistan and Bangladesh teams set to face off in three-match T20 series in Lahore

First T20 Match Begins In

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Series Overview

In a decision that has already stirred debate, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially confirmed that the upcoming T20I series between Pakistan and Bangladesh will be played without the Decision Review System (DRS)—a move seen as a significant setback for match fairness and transparency.

The three-match series begins this Wednesday in Lahore, and like the final stages of PSL 10, the advanced umpiring technology will be unavailable. The PCB has reportedly informed the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) in advance about the situation.

                    Series Quick Facts
                    Format: Three T20 International matches
Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Dates: May 29, May 31, and June 2, 2025
Match Referee: Ranjan Madugalle (ICC Elite Panel)
DRS Status: Not available for any match

                

The absence of the Decision Review System has raised significant concerns among cricket analysts, fans, and former players, especially given recent controversial decisions in Pakistan cricket events where the technology was unavailable.

Why No DRS? A Lingering Fallout

Umpiring Decisions Under Scrutiny

Without DRS technology, controversial decisions like this umpire’s call cannot be challenged, potentially affecting match outcomes and player statistics.

According to PCB sources, the DRS technology crew left Pakistan after PSL 10 and did not return, which caused the system to be non-operational during the crucial PSL final. The absence of DRS led to a major controversy when a questionable decision against Saud Shakeel (Quetta Gladiators) could not be challenged, prompting criticism from analysts, fans, and former cricketers.

Despite that backlash, PCB failed to rectify the issue before this international series, raising concerns over the board’s preparedness and prioritization of modern match standards.

During the PSL 10 playoffs, a controversial LBW decision against Quetta Gladiators’ Saud Shakeel turned the match in favor of their opponents. TV replays suggested the ball was likely missing leg stump, but without DRS available, the decision stood.

Former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq criticized the PCB severely on commentary, stating: “In modern cricket, not having DRS for knockout matches is unacceptable. Teams invest millions and players’ careers are affected by such decisions.”

The controversy dominated sports headlines for days, with the PCB promising to address the issue before future tournaments.

“In an era when even domestic T20 leagues globally use DRS, failing to provide this technology for an international series reflects poorly on cricket administration. It’s not a luxury anymore, it’s a necessity for fair play.”

– Former ICC Umpire

What Pakistan-Bangladesh Series Will Miss

Comprehensive view of DRS technology components that will be absent during the series

DRS Impact Statistics

Umpiring Error Reduction

Match Officials Appointed

ICC Elite Panel Match Referee Ranjan Madugalle (center) will oversee the series

ICC Elite Referee Joins

Despite the absence of DRS, match official appointments aim to maintain international standards, with Ranjan Madugalle, a highly respected member of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, overseeing the series.

Umpiring Panel for the Series

The following officials have been appointed for the three-match series:

On-field Umpires: Ahsan Raza, Asif Yaqoob
Third Umpire: Rashid Riaz Waqar
Fourth Umpire: Faisal Khan Afridi
Match Referee: Ranjan Madugalle

On-field Umpires: Rashid Riaz, Faisal Khan Afridi
Third Umpire: Ahsan Raza
Fourth Umpire: Asif Yaqoob
Match Referee: Ranjan Madugalle

On-field Umpires: Ahsan Raza, Asif Yaqoob
Third Umpire: Faisal Khan Afridi
Fourth Umpire: Rashid Riaz Waqar
Match Referee: Ranjan Madugalle

The appointment of experienced officials, including international standard umpires, indicates PCB’s attempt to ensure quality decision-making despite the absence of technology-assisted reviews.

Madugalle’s presence as match referee brings considerable experience to the series. As one of cricket’s most respected officials, he has overseen numerous high-profile matches and tournaments, including multiple World Cup finals.

Analyst Views: Technology Is Not a Luxury Anymore

Former players and analysts emphasize that DRS is no longer optional—it’s essential for any series of international standing. The lack of DRS not only increases the margin for human error but invites unnecessary controversy, especially in matches that may affect ICC rankings, player careers, and tournament qualification.

Critical Questions Being Asked

Why wasn’t the DRS crew retained for a few extra weeks after PSL?
Why wasn’t an alternative arrangement made for such a basic and critical component of modern cricket?
How will controversial decisions impact the teams’ preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup?
What message does this send to visiting teams about Pakistan’s cricket infrastructure?

Expert Opinions

“This is a step backward for Pakistan cricket. In today’s game, DRS is as essential as proper lighting or boundary ropes.” – Former Pakistan Captain

“Both teams are using this series as World Cup preparation. Without DRS, it doesn’t represent the conditions they’ll face in the global tournament.” – Cricket Commentator

“Administrative oversights shouldn’t affect on-field quality. PCB needs better planning for technology requirements.” – Sports Analyst

Historical Context: DRS in Cricket

DRS was first introduced in Test cricket in 2008, initially featuring only ball-tracking technology. Over time, it evolved to include:

Hawk-Eye Ball Tracking: Predicts the ball’s path to determine LBW decisions
UltraEdge/Snicko: Detects edges for caught-behind decisions using sound and video synchronization
Hot Spot: Uses infrared imaging to detect ball contact with bat or player
Ball Spin RPM Analysis: Newer technology that measures ball revolution

By 2020, almost all Full Member cricket nations were using complete DRS technology packages for their home international fixtures. The technology now handles approximately 20-25% of challenged decisions across formats, with an average correction rate of 22%.

Pakistan cricket has experienced several notable DRS incidents:

2021 PSL: Technical issues caused DRS to be unavailable for multiple matches, leading to criticism from franchise owners
2022 Pakistan vs Australia Series: Controversial ball-tracking decisions led to questions about calibration of the system in Pakistani venues
2023 Champions Trophy Qualifier: DRS was available but with reduced technology package (no Hot Spot), causing teams to file complaints

The PCB has repeatedly committed to improving technological infrastructure but implementation has been inconsistent across tournaments and series.

Key Player Profiles

As both teams prepare for the T20 World Cup, several players will be using this series as a crucial tune-up opportunity. Their performances might be significantly impacted by the absence of DRS technology.

Babar Azam

Pakistan

Captain & Batsman

Pakistan’s premier batsman who has historically benefited from DRS when given out incorrectly. Will need to be extra cautious with his shot selection knowing reviews aren’t available.

T20I Average: 41.48 Strike Rate: 128.76

Shakib Al Hasan

Bangladesh

All-Rounder

Bangladesh’s experienced all-rounder whose bowling often results in close LBW calls. The absence of DRS could work both for and against his bowling statistics.

T20I Wickets: 135 Economy Rate: 6.78

Shaheen Afridi

Pakistan

Fast Bowler

Pakistan’s lethal left-arm pacer whose inswinging deliveries often lead to LBW appeals. Without DRS, umpires may be more cautious in upholding appeals on his deliveries.

T20I Wickets: 84 Economy Rate: 7.32

T20 World Cup Preparation Implications

With the ICC T20 World Cup approaching, this three-match series serves as vital preparation for both teams. However, the absence of DRS creates a significant discrepancy between this series and the conditions teams will face during the World Cup.

World Cup Readiness Concerns

Coaches from both teams have expressed concern that players will need to adjust their decision-making twice: once for this series without DRS, and again for the World Cup where DRS will be fully implemented. This includes:

Batsmen may develop overly cautious approaches to avoid marginal dismissals
Bowlers might be hesitant to appeal confidently for close calls
Fielding teams cannot strategize around review usage
Captains miss valuable practice in DRS decision-making

Analysts suggest that while the core skills being tested remain the same, the psychological and strategic elements that DRS introduces to modern cricket will be absent from this preparation series.

Conclusion: Missed Opportunity for PCB

The Pakistan-Bangladesh series presents a vital preparation platform for both teams ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup, but the lack of DRS taints its competitive integrity. With global eyes on cricket in Pakistan, especially after successful PSL seasons, this oversight may cast doubt on the board’s ability to host technology-reliant events smoothly.

If PCB wants to elevate Pakistan as a consistent international venue, administrative efficiency and modern infrastructure—not just passionate crowds—must become its top priority.

“Cricket has evolved into a technology-embracing sport. Nations hosting international cricket must evolve with it or risk being left behind in the global cricket ecosystem.”

– Cricket Administration Expert