In an unusual start to the 56th match of IPL 2025 between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans at the Wankhede Stadium, the Decision Review System (DRS) was found to be unavailable during the initial overs, drawing criticism from the commentary panel.
The incident occurred during the second over of MI’s innings when on-field umpires were seen in a brief discussion with captain Rohit Sharma. Moments later, commentators Aakash Chopra, Anil Kumble, and Mohammad Kaif revealed during the live broadcast that “DRS abhi uplabdh nahi hai dono teams ke liye” (DRS is currently unavailable for both teams). Aakash Chopra even quipped, “Umpire jag jaiye,” indicating frustration over the lapse in readiness.
Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians were 25/1 in 3.1 overs at the time of the interruption. Will Jacks was batting on 16 off 10 balls (2 fours, 1 six), and Rohit Sharma was on 7 off 7. Ryan Rickelton was the only wicket to fall, dismissed for 2 (2) by Mohammed Siraj, caught by Sai Sudharsan. Siraj had bowled two overs for 21 runs and picked up the lone wicket, while Arshad Khan kept things tight from the other end with figures of 1.1-0-4-0.
The early lack of DRS, especially in a high-profile clash like this, sparked a wave of reactions online, with fans demanding better infrastructure planning in such marquee tournaments. The BCCI has not issued an official statement on the cause of the delay as of now.
