Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Snickometer

The Snickometer, commonly known as Snicko, is a sound-detection technology employed in to ascertain whether a delivered has grazed the , aiding in the verification of potential dismissals such as caught behind or edged shots. It operates by embedding ultra-sensitive microphones within the stumps to capture audio signals, which are then processed through an to generate graphical that highlight distinct sound patterns from . A sharp, vertical spike on the typically indicates bat- interaction, contrasting with broader, flatter traces from incidental noises like the striking pads or clothing. Developed by English computer scientist Allan Plaskett in the mid-1990s, the Snickometer was initially designed for television commentary to enhance viewer analysis of close calls. It debuted on UK broadcaster during international matches in 1999, quickly gaining adoption in major -playing nations like and for broadcast enhancements. By the early , advancements led to the Real-Time Snickometer, which synchronizes audio with high-speed video footage for near-instantaneous review, reducing delays in decision-making. The technology's integration into official umpiring came with the 's approval of the Real-Time Snickometer for the in 2014, making it an optional tool for third umpires during player-initiated reviews. In DRS protocols, it complements other systems like for trajectory prediction and for thermal imaging, providing auditory evidence to resolve edge disputes in formats including Test matches, One Day Internationals, and T20s. Produced by BBG Sports, the Snickometer remains a cornerstone of modern cricket technology, though its use is not mandatory and relies on broadcast infrastructure at venues. Despite occasional debates over its sensitivity to ambient noise, it has significantly improved the accuracy of on-field adjudications.

History

Invention and Development

The Snickometer was invented by Allan Plaskett, an English , in the mid-1990s as a specialized tool for analyzing audio-visual events in matches. Plaskett's addressed the challenges of verifying subtle interactions during play, particularly in contentious umpiring scenarios. The initial concept focused on detecting faint sounds produced by the ball making contact with the bat, providing objective evidence to support decisions on potential dismissals like caught behind. This approach was driven by the limitations of visual observation alone in high-stakes moments, aiming to synchronize audio signals with video footage for precise event correlation. In 2001, Plaskett was granted UK patent GB2358755A for "Method of and system for analysing events," which detailed the core technique of processing audio waveforms alongside video frames to identify synchronized occurrences. During the late 1990s, Plaskett collaborated with Warren Brennan, the inventor of Hot Spot technology, to integrate sound analysis into prototypes, refining the system's ability to capture and interpret edge detections. These early prototypes laid the groundwork for its eventual broadcast application.

Introduction and Adoption

The Snickometer, invented by English computer scientist Allan Plaskett in the mid-1990s, made its broadcasting debut in 1999 when the UK's introduced it during coverage of the , providing viewers with visual confirmation of faint bat-ball contacts for the first time. This marked a significant step in enhancing televised analysis of potential edges, particularly for caught-behind dismissals, and quickly became a staple in 's innovative production toolkit alongside technologies like . Following its debut, the Snickometer saw experimental use in Test matches and One-Day Internationals in starting from 2000, where it gained traction among commentators for its ability to detect subtle edges that were otherwise imperceptible. Its integration into live broadcasts helped build credibility, as analysts relied on the oscilloscope tracings to debate umpire calls, fostering greater viewer engagement with on-field decisions. By the early , this growing familiarity paved the way for broader scrutiny of umpiring accuracy. Adoption accelerated globally thereafter, featuring prominently in high-profile series such as from 2005 onward and the (IPL), where it supported enhanced broadcasting and processes. By the , it had become a standard tool in most professional leagues, underscoring its evolution from a novelty to an essential aid. Key milestones included its first controversial application in a 2001 Test match, which sparked debates on in umpiring, and the 2013 approval of the Real Time Snicko (RTS) variant for official use during the series in . The (ICC) confirmed the integration of Real-Time Snickometer into the () in November 2013.

Technology

Components

The Snickometer system relies on a combination of specialized hardware and software to detect and analyze audio signals generated by potential bat-ball contacts in . At its core, the primary hardware consists of directional microphones, typically two in the stumps, designed to capture high-frequency sounds from ball impacts while minimizing ambient noise. These microphones are connected via cabling to a central , where signals are processed for further analysis. Synchronization with visual elements is achieved through high-speed cameras that record slow-motion video footage, aligned frame-by-frame with the audio feeds from . This ensures that sound data can be temporally matched to specific moments in the video replay, providing a correlated view of events at the crease. For signal and interpretation, the system employs analysis equipment such as an or to represent sound spikes as graphical traces, highlighting deviations indicative of impacts. Accompanying computer software overlays these audio waveforms directly onto the synchronized video, enabling operators to correlate visual and auditory evidence in a composite . Enhancements in the Snickometer (RTS) variant, developed by BBG Sports in with Allan Plaskett and Warren Brennan, include a dedicated processing unit that performs rapid analysis, typically within under 10 seconds, incorporating noise-filtering algorithms to isolate relevant signals from environmental interference. This setup supports quicker decision-making in live broadcasts and umpiring reviews.

Operation

The operation of the Snickometer begins with the of audio signals from stump with corresponding video . This time-alignment uses timestamps and pre-match to precisely match audio captures to exact moments of potential ball contact, ensuring that sound data correlates accurately with visual events. Once synchronized, the system detects relevant sounds by identifying acoustic spikes, such as sharp peaks indicative of a "" from ball- contact, while filtering out like crowd sounds or wind. Microphones embedded in the stumps capture these audio signals, which are then processed through an to amplify the desired and suppress irrelevant ambient interference. The filtering relies on distinguishing the high-frequency, brief impulse of a bat edge from lower-frequency impacts, based on established and patterns tuned during . For visualization, the processed audio is overlaid as a graphical onto slow-motion video replays of the , allowing analysts to observe any between an acoustic and the ball's visual deviation from its . This overlay highlights potential edges by correlating the sound peak with the precise instant of the ball passing the bat. The analysis produces a clear graphical output: a pronounced spike on the trace confirms contact, while a flat line indicates no . In the Real Time Snickometer (RTS) variant, dedicated automates this , delivering results in 5-10 seconds without manual adjustments, enabling faster into decision-making systems. Pre-match further refines the by using test sounds at varying distances to adjust for time shifts and differentiate impacts (sharp, high-amplitude spikes) from pad or glove contacts (broader, lower-frequency patterns).

Uses

In Broadcasting

The Snickometer has been integrated into cricket broadcasting by major networks such as , , and to augment commentary on contentious close calls, particularly potential edges off the , by displaying graphics alongside slow-motion replays. Introduced by during its 1999 Test cricket coverage, it quickly became a staple for enhancing analytical discussions during live matches. This technology boosts viewer engagement by offering visual and auditory cues that allow audiences to observe and interpret faint deflections, thereby heightening the dramatic tension around umpiring decisions in broadcasts. Since its debut, the waveform visualization has transformed passive viewing into an interactive analytical experience, enabling spectators to follow the nuances of play more immersively. In the production process, Snickometer operators, often working from specialized units within broadcast trucks, analyze live audio feeds in and overlay the resulting graphics onto replay segments for seamless integration into the telecast. This workflow ensures that commentators receive enhanced visuals promptly, facilitating informed on-air debates without interrupting the flow of the match. Beyond live action, the Snickometer features prominently in non-decision-review contexts, such as compilations and post-match breakdowns, where it aids retrospective examinations of key moments and sparks discussions on officiating accuracy. With the rise of digital platforms, the Snickometer has evolved for streaming services like Hotstar and Willow TV, incorporating real-time processing to deliver faster, interactive replays that cater to on-demand audiences seeking enhanced, mobile-friendly viewing.

In Umpiring and DRS

The Snickometer plays a key role in the (DRS) by aiding the third in reviewing potential caught behind or edged dismissals, where it detects audio signals from bat-ball contact using stump microphones. It is consulted alongside other technologies, such as for ball trajectory, to provide evidence of edges that may not be visible in standard replays. Under protocol, the process begins when an on-field signals uncertainty or a player initiates a , prompting the third to examine . If a distinct spike on the Snickometer corresponds precisely with the ball's position near the —indicating —the decision can be overturned, such as changing a "not out" to "out" for a confirmed . This alignment of audio evidence with visual deviation is crucial for validation, though the third makes the final call based on all available data. The () has integrated the Real-Time Snickometer into as an optional tool in international matches since its official approval in 2014, following a trial during the , with protocols emphasizing its use as one of multiple evidence sources rather than standalone proof. Teams are limited to two unsuccessful reviews per innings in Test matches and One Day Internationals, and one in T20s, ensuring judicious application. The technology's impact was notably enhanced during the 2013-14 series, where the Snickometer (RTS) was introduced for the first time in , enabling faster and more reliable edge detection that influenced several high-profile decisions and contributed to reducing human error in close calls. umpires receive specialized briefings on interpreting Snickometer spikes during pre-series training to ensure consistent application, with access restricted to officials only to preserve decision-making neutrality.

Limitations and Criticisms

Accuracy Issues

The Snickometer's reliance on audio signals captured by stump microphones introduces in distinguishing between a genuine bat- contact and other impacts, such as the ball striking the batsman's pad, , or gloves, often resulting in false positives that require additional . This occurs because the amplifies any or near the stumps without inherently differentiating sources, leading to potential misinterpretations in . Sensitivity challenges further compromise reliability, as microphones may fail to capture faint edges due to their subtlety or amplify extraneous sounds like bat twitches or minor adjustments. Environmental factors exacerbate these issues; ambient from crowds, , or even the wicketkeeper's proximity can distort signals, while suboptimal microphone placement may lead to inconclusive outcomes in variable conditions. The original Snickometer processing involves manual synchronization of audio and video, which can take up to several minutes, disrupting game flow and contributing to delays in , though variants have reduced this to 5-10 seconds without fully resolving inconsistencies. Documented errors highlight these limitations, such as during the where the technology registered a noise on Kevin Pietersen's bat that sparked debates over its interpretability, and Joe Root's dismissal where results were deemed inconclusive, fueling discussions on over-reliance in high-stakes scenarios. More recent controversies include Yashasvi Jaiswal's 2024 dismissal at the , where no audio spike appeared despite visual evidence leading to an out decision, and KL Rahul's 2024 edge at , where a spike was shown but its source was disputed, underscoring persistent challenges in aligning audio with other evidence.

Comparisons with Other Technologies

The Snickometer, relying solely on audio analysis to detect ball-bat contact through sound waves captured by stump microphones, contrasts with technology, which employs cameras to visualize thermal marks from impacts, thereby confirming the precise location of contact on the bat or pad. While the Snickometer is more cost-effective at approximately £2,500 per day compared to Hot Spot's £7,500 for a four-camera setup (as of 2013), it offers less spatial precision, as it cannot pinpoint impact sites without visual aids, whereas provides direct thermal evidence but can falter with faint edges from fast bowlers due to or insufficient friction-generated heat. This makes the Snickometer particularly useful for detecting subtle audio signatures in scenarios where 's visual output is inconclusive, such as late-afternoon conditions affected by sunlight reflections. UltraEdge represents an enhanced iteration of the Snickometer, developed by Innovations, featuring improved noise cancellation to filter out extraneous sounds like those from pads or clothing, alongside visualizations that analyze frequency patterns for clearer differentiation between bat edges and non-contact noises. In contrast to the original Snickometer's basic , UltraEdge integrates processing and visual overlays, reducing subjectivity in interpretation and achieving higher reliability in during broadcasts and reviews. Within the (), the Snickometer synergizes with 's ball-tracking technology, where audio evidence of edges complements trajectory predictions for leg-before-wicket (LBW) or caught-behind decisions, often requiring corroboration from multiple tools since the ICC's 2012 standardization of protocols emphasized combined technological input to minimize errors. For instance, provides path visualization, while the Snickometer supplies auditory confirmation of contact, enabling third umpires to overturn on-field calls only when evidence aligns across systems, as trialed and ratified by the ICC around that period. The Snickometer's primary advantage over naked-eye observations or standard slow-motion replays lies in its ability to identify imperceptible edges—faint sounds from bat-ball interactions that elude human vision or basic video analysis—thus revealing contacts too subtle for broadcasters or umpires without specialized audio enhancement. However, unlike Hot Spot's tangible visual proof, it depends on interpretive waveform analysis, which can introduce variability without supplementary visuals.

References

  1. [1]
    Cricket Snicko-Meter - Topend Sports
    The snickometer is composed of a very sensitive microphone located in one of the stumps, connected to an oscilloscope that measures sound waves. When the ball ...Missing: explanation | Show results with:explanation
  2. [2]
    ICC approve Real-Time Snicko - Cricbuzz.com
    Real-Time Snickometer has been included in the ICC's list of approved technology for the DRS.<|control11|><|separator|>
  3. [3]
    Men's ODI Match Appendix D Decision Review System (DRS) and ...
    Sep 29, 2017 · The batsman can be Out if the ball-tracking technology reports that the ball pitched Outside Off or In Line, but the batsman shall be Not out if the ball ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  4. [4]
    The tech that changed cricket for the better - Wisden
    Jan 15, 2022 · The Snickometer, fondly known as Snicko, was invented by Allan Plaskett. The idea was that the Snicko would help umpires in their decision ...
  5. [5]
    Innovation in Cricket - Snickometer Patent | Intellepedia - BananaIP
    Jan 31, 2019 · Snickometer was invented by Allan Plaskett. He was granted a patent (GB2358755A) for “Method of and system for analysing events”. It is used ...
  6. [6]
    What Is Snickometer Technology in Cricket? | cric-life.com
    Nov 26, 2020 · History of Snickometer ... The Snickometer traces back to the mid-90s when it was invented by British computer scientist Allan Plaskett.
  7. [7]
    Hot Spot inventor calls for official use of Snickometer in winter Ashes
    Jul 27, 2013 · The inventor of Hot Spot, Warren Brennan, has called on the ICC to introduce additional audio evidence in time for the winter Ashes.
  8. [8]
    GB2358755A - Method of and system for analysing events
    A method of analysing events is provided, in which a television signal of an event to be analysed is recorded, the video part of the recorded signal is ...Missing: Snickometer | Show results with:Snickometer
  9. [9]
    Real Time Snicko could give DRS the edge - ESPNcricinfo
    Feb 6, 2013 · In late 2011, Brennan discussed the idea of improving the Snickometer product with old colleague Allan Plaskett. The Snickometer was Plaskett's ...Missing: collaboration | Show results with:collaboration<|control11|><|separator|>
  10. [10]
    https://digital-library.theiet.org/doi/pdf/10.1049/et.2010.1404
  11. [11]
    Cricket: Channel 4 reveals the sensational Snickometer
    Jun 25, 1999 · The main innovation is the Snickometer, an invention by an electronics and information technology consultant, Alan Plaskett, which attempts ...Missing: Allan | Show results with:Allan
  12. [12]
    A fine result as Four passes its first Test | Cricket - The Guardian
    Jul 26, 1999 · Already life feels empty without the snickometer. But if C4's debut looked serene from an armchair, the frantic activity in the production ...
  13. [13]
    Cricket Evolution: How cricket embraced pioneering technology
    Oct 13, 2021 · 1999 was also the year when the edge detector, better known as a snickometer, was first introduced. ... Channel 4 was the first network to use ...
  14. [14]
    A sound way to judge catches? | Cricket - The Guardian
    Aug 20, 2000 · The snickometer has always been portrayed as a novelty rather than categoric proof of a snick or a miss. For one thing, the sound waves ...
  15. [15]
    LBW in Cricket: Meaning, Rules, History (2025 Updated)
    Event. 2001–2002, Early trials of Hawk-Eye technology began in broadcasting. 2008, First official DRS use in a Test match: India vs Sri Lanka (Colombo). First ...<|separator|>
  16. [16]
    Why Channel 4's 2005 Ashes was TV perfection: How Snicko, Lou ...
    Feb 3, 2021 · ... Snickometer and ball-tracking, had transformed the coverage and helped it serve out its notice period with dramatic panache. Touchingly the ...Missing: adoption | Show results with:adoption
  17. [17]
    Technology in cricket – All you need to know about DRS, Snicko ...
    In 1999, Channel 4 in the United Kingdom became the first to use Snickometer technology. Hawkeye: The Hawkeye technology was launched in 2001. The Snickometer ...Missing: debut | Show results with:debut<|separator|>
  18. [18]
    Controversial decisions did not help... it is time to act | Cricket | The ...
    The snickometer (if we have to call it this) is less failsafe, but nevertheless gives a pretty clear indication of whether or not there was an edge, as with ...
  19. [19]
    Real-time Snicko gets Ashes debut | ESPNcricinfo
    Nov 19, 2013 · The ICC has confirmed that Real-time Snicko technology will be be used in conjunction with Hot Spot to detect edges as part of the DRS for the upcoming Ashes ...
  20. [20]
    A cricket bat and ball contact detection system and indicator
    The tests found that frequency signals varied between 500 Hz and 5 KHz with the highest frequency occurring with glancing contact between a ball and edge ...
  21. [21]
    https://guyanachronicle.com/2013/11/19/real-time-snickometer-to-be-part-of-drs-in-ashes-sries/
  22. [22]
    Real-Time Snickometer to be part of DRS in Ashes sries
    Nov 19, 2013 · The International Cricket Council (ICC) yesterday confirmed that Real-Time Snickometer (RTS) will be part of the Decision Review System (DRS) in the ...Missing: enhancements | Show results with:enhancements
  23. [23]
    AU2014295901B2 - Synchronisation of video and audio capture
    Warren Brennan: Allan Plaskett; Current Assignee. The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation ...Missing: collaboration | Show results with:collaboration
  24. [24]
    The science behind snicko – The Sound Blog - Trevor Cox
    Jul 10, 2013 · A microphone in the stumps picks up the sound and this is cleaned up to remove ambient noise by filtering. [2] What is displayed on the ...
  25. [25]
    [PDF] Significant roll of ultra edge technology in modern cricket
    The Snickometer is composed of a very sensitive microphone located in one of the stumps, connected to an oscilloscope that measures sound waves. Oscilloscope is ...
  26. [26]
    Cricket: Channel 4 reveals the sensational Snickometer
    ### Summary of Snickometer Introduction by Channel 4
  27. [27]
    More than meets the Sky | ESPNcricinfo
    Jun 15, 2006 · In one of the extended wings of the truck sits Allan, the inventor and operator of the Snickometer. The Hawk-Eye team have a room to ...
  28. [28]
    Realtime snickometer unveiled as ABC radio coverage for Ashes ...
    Nov 19, 2013 · Cricket's controversial Decision Review System was given an 11th hour facelift for the Ashes with the real-time Snickometer to be used on a ...
  29. [29]
    Exploring the Impact of Snickometer Technology in Cricket
    Nov 22, 2022 · A snickometer is a piece of technology that is used in the sport of cricket to detect sound frequencies during the game.Missing: explanation | Show results with:explanation
  30. [30]
    How Technology has Affected the Game of Cricket | StanceBeam
    Jan 10, 2023 · Snickometer. Increased fan engagement: Technology has also helped to increase fan engagement with cricket. For example, fans can now access ...
  31. [31]
    How to Analyze a Cricket Match Like a Pro
    Mar 7, 2025 · Shows batsmen's strong and weak areas. Helps bowlers understand where to pitch the ball. c) Stump Microphones & Snickometer. Helps in edge ...
  32. [32]
    Willow TV: Welcome
    Watch live cricket matches, get real-time scores, and enjoy highlights, replays, and schedules for all major cricket leagues and tournaments on Willow.tv.Subscribe · Fixtures · Login · TV Channel
  33. [33]
    DRS in cricket: Rules, methods and how it works - Olympics.com
    Dec 27, 2023 · DRS in cricket is a technology-based system that helps players to request reviews of the on-field decisions made by umpires.
  34. [34]
    Explained: LBW rules and the controversial umpire's call in DRS
    Mar 21, 2022 · To make a decision, the DRS relies on ball tracking (to estimate the trajectory of the ball) and snickometer (to see if there is an edge off ...Missing: guidelines | Show results with:guidelines
  35. [35]
    Test Match Cricket and the Decision Review System - Sports Shorts
    Oct 25, 2016 · Real-time 'Snickometer' – where directional microphones are used to detect small sounds in order to determine if the ball hit the bat or pads.<|control11|><|separator|>
  36. [36]
    BBC Sport - Umpire review system agreed for 2011 Cricket World Cup
    Jul 1, 2010 · The International Cricket Council (ICC) has agreed in principle to use the umpire Decision Review System (DRS) at the 2011 World Cup.Missing: protocol Snickometer mandatory
  37. [37]
    Ashes 2013-14: Hot Spot and Snicko will feature down under - BBC
    Nov 19, 2013 · Umpires in the Ashes series between England and Australia will use a real-time Snickometer and HotSpot to help detect contact between bat and ball.Missing: RTS high-
  38. [38]
    Howzat! - The Economist
    Aug 31, 2011 · If the two touch, Snicko ought to pick it up. Unfortunately, it picks up any noise around the stumps, leading to too many false positives to be ...
  39. [39]
    An automated snick detection and classification scheme as a cricket ...
    The system achieves a classification rate of 98.3 percent for the self-collected data while presenting an accuracy of 85.7 percentage for the real cricket snick ...
  40. [40]
    Ashes: Did batsmen use silicone tape to cheat technology?
    Aug 8, 2013 · The Snickometer picked up a noise that sounded like a clear edge by Pietersen but the Hot Spot showed no positive results. PIETERSEN FURIOUS.
  41. [41]
    Root dismissal sparks controversy | cricket.com.au
    Dec 14, 2013 · Third umpire Tony Hill deemed both Hot Spot and Real-Time Snicko technology to be inconclusive, and because the original decision was out, there ...<|separator|>