The International Cricket Council have confirmed television viewers will be allowed to hear communication between the third umpire and the on-field officials during this month’s ODI series between Australia and South Africa.

Host broadcaster, Nine Network, will air the discussions during referrals, Decision Review System player reviews and other conversations between the umpires.

‘For years viewers have enjoyed seeing the same pictures as the TV umpire and making their own decisions during a referral or review. Now they will be even closer to the game, hearing what the umpire is saying when making those decisions,’ said ICC general manager of cricket Geoff Allardice.

England’s Nigel Llong and New Zealand’s Billy Bowden will be the on-field umpires for all five fixtures, while the television officials will be local appointments.

The five-ODI series will start in Perth on Friday. The same venue will host the second match on Sunday, while Canberra, Melbourne and Sydney will host the third, fourth and fifth respectively next week.

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