In the aftermath of Rishabh Pant’s dismissal, there is speculation whether India will no longer use HotSpot technology in cricket. Rishabh Pant’s dismissal became a topic of discussion as there was no evidence to overturn the on-field decision.
Rishabh Pant was dismissed when the game was in the balance for being caught using a bat-pad with the Decision Review System (DRS) overturning the ‘Not Out’ decision given by the on-field umpire.
The snicko-meter detected a spike when the ball was close to the bat, which happened because the bat hit the pad as the third umpire reviewed the foliage. Rishabh Pant had an argument with the on-field umpire while pointing at the pad he had used. But India had to hang up their hopes as they lost by 25 runs and with a score of 64.
Anil Kumble, former India captain and coach said in an interview on JioCinema that HotSpot technology will no longer be used in India because it is a military technology.
Getting Know HotSpot Technology
French scientist Nicholas Bion developed HotSpot technology which was intended to help military forces in combat situations. This technology helps them to detect the movement of tanks and jets in the dark and when the field is covered in thick smoke.
History of HotSpot’s Entry Into The World of Cricket
HotSpot technology is a pioneer and was first introduced by Channel Nine in Australia during the 2006-2007 Ashes. HotSpot specifically tells which two objects caused friction when they collided.
By using an infrared camera that helps determine which part of the batsman’s body or bat touches the ball. This camera was introduced to enrich the experience of watching the match and eventually found a place in DRS during matches in Australia. HotSpot is also used during matches in South Africa, England, and the UAE where Pakistan plays.
How HotSpot Technology Works
There are two thermal imaging cameras placed at either end of the bowler’s back which help capture the heat signature produced by the ball when it comes into contact with the bat or pad. HotSpot will determine whether the edge comes off the bat or the snicko gets stuck when the bat collides with the pad.