Some decisions just can't be taken by umpires on the field during a cricket match. That's where a third umpire comes in. He is the overlord. After taking his time, with the press of a button, he can break a million hearts or give resounding hope. We all know how things go down on the field and on television.
Fans hold their breath, cross their fingers and after what seems like an eternity, the light goes on. Depending on the colour, we curse or praise the 3rd umpire.
Well, the technology was introduced in November, 1992 for a Test match between India & South Africa.
Interestingly, Sachin Tendulkar was the first batsman to be given out using television replay (I'm sure we hated that moment). And back then, green meant out!
But obviously, the technology wasn't as 'advanced' back in the day.
Slowly, it evolved, and from just deciding run outs, the third umpire had to also decide if the ball had cleared the ropes when a fielder dove in to save a boundary. Or whether the ball cleared for a six or stayed in the field.
