Controversial review system returns 

Source: PhotosportDaniel Flynn

The controversial Umpire Decision Review System (DRS) will be used in the upcoming Test series against Pakistan, New Zealand Cricket has confirmed.

The DRS allows the third umpire to use ball-tracking or other available technology to review decisions requested by players. Each team is allowed to make two unsuccessful player review requests per innings.

Confirmation comes after agreement was reached this afternoon with Dunedin-based company Animation Research Limited, to supply their Virtual Eye ball-tracking technology.

NZC Chief Executive Justin Vaughan said he was delighted that ARL's Virtual Eye system would be available.

"It's exciting that the new decision review system will be up and running for this Test series," said Vaughan. "This will be the first series in the international calendar to use the new DRS - it's an important advance for international cricket.

"We're also delighted that a kiwi company will be the first to pioneer the ball-tracking technology."

The review system drew mixed reviews when it was trialled in the Black Caps' home series against the West Indies last summer. Most complaints were based on the long delays while video evidence was reviewed, and limitations in the technology available to third umpires.

In the first Test in Dunedin, Daniel Flynn fell agonisingly short of a maiden Test century after a referral from bowler Chris Gayle saw his marginal not-out LBW decision reversed.

In the second Test in Napier, Brendon McCullum was furious at having an appeal against his dismissal rejected after the third umpire could not find sufficient evidence that he hadn't edged the ball to the keeper. The Black Caps vice-captain was adamant he was not out.

That decision cost New Zealand any chance they had of pushing for victory.