Founder of Hawk-Eye, Paul Hawkins, has responded to former England captain Michael Vaughan’s remarks regarding transparency in the decision-making process by technology.
Vaughan’s comments surfaced following a contentious LBW decision involving Joe Root during the fourth Test between England and India at Ranchi. Vaughan proposed a solution to enhance transparency by suggesting the inclusion of cameras and microphones in the decision-making truck, stating,
“So here is a simple solution to help improve transparency and accountability: stick a camera and microphone in the truck so as that a decision is being made, and we all know exactly what is going on, and how many humans are involved.
You could argue that those running the technology in the truck are as important as the two standing umpires.”
In response, Hawkins addressed Vaughan’s commentary on The Analytics Podcast, expressing disappointment and suggesting a need for more informed journalism. He remarked, “The commentary, I think, is a little bit uneducated.
It is unfortunate for Vaughan, because, obviously a fantastic player, really enjoyed watching him play, and a great commentator, very entertaining. But I think it’s a responsibility to the game, in terms of journalism.
Perhaps a little bit more preparation in terms of his role as a journalist may help him explain what’s happening to the huge fan base of cricket so that what he writes is factually correct. In the same way as Hawk-Eye should be factually correct, perhaps journalists do too.
” Root’s dismissal became a pivotal moment in the match as England struggled, ultimately succumbing to a low total of 145 in the second innings. India successfully chased down the target of 192, securing victory by five wickets on Day 4 and taking an unassailable 3-1 series lead.
