Stump mics bring fans closer to the game: World Cup director Steve Elworthy

Stump mics are something that has been in the debate for some time now. There are varied opinions on whether they should be on at all times during the game. The stump mics have become one of the talking points across the cricketing fraternity in the recent past. Sarfaraz Ahmed and Shannon Gabriel were caught on the stump mic using inappropriate comments against their oppositions. Hence, they were subsequently suspended.

However, World Cup director Steve Elworthy has backed the idea of turning on the stump mics for the entire duration of the game in the upcoming World Cup. He feels that this will bring the fans a lot closer to the game and their heroes. “From a fan engagement point of view, being able to do this for fans and spectators who are coming to the game or are watching on TV, these things need to be discussed, and need to be addressed,” Steve Elworthy was quoted saying by ESPNCricinfo.

A similar experiment was done in Australia this past summer. There was no commentary for an entire over. The viewers could get an uninterrupted live feed from the ground where the comments from the players were clearly audible. Elworthy further added that the fans want to know what goes on in the heat of the battle. However, he acknowledged that there are certain sensitive issues and hence, it becomes a fine balancing act.

We will ensure the usage of stump mics consistently: Dave Richardson

While there have been many varied opinions on the use of stump mics, the ICC chief executive Dave Richardson said that irrespective of what the broadcaster does, the ICC will look to use the stump mics consistently. The match officials will have the entire audio clip of the game.

“What [ICC] will do, certainly from a disciplinary policing point of view, we will make sure that we will apply [stump mics] consistently. So, although the broadcaster might decide not to broadcast to the public because he might feel that sometimes the comments on the field can be pretty banal and irritating, I suppose to the viewers, as long as that audio is still available to the match officials to use if necessary,” Richardson told.

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