The Indian Super League (ISL) happens to be the premier football league not just in India but the whole of Asia. The league has attracted several star players of yesteryears. The young breed of Indian footballers do get an opportunity to showcase their talent and rub shoulders with some prominent names in the football world.
The football dished out at the league matches is of a high standard. However, the standard of officiating in the matches has left much to be desired. One match in question was the match between North East United FC and SC East Bengal which the former won by a solitary goal. It must be said that misinterpretation of the penalty and the offside rule can mean the difference between victory and defeat for a team. That is where the importance of a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) comes into play.
At most major football leagues across the world the latest technology like video replays is used to come to a decisive conclusion whenever there is doubt. As a matter of fact video replays is officially used in several other games at the international level including lawn-tennis and cricket.
Given the popularity of the Indian Super League and the high stakes involved for the teams, the owners and the players, it would be desirable to introduce the VAR system in future editions of the league.
ADELMO FERNANDES, Vasco
