Explained: Why There is No DRS in the ZIM vs BAN Series 2026?

The bilateral series between Zimbabwe and Bangladesh is turning out to be highly competitive between two teams that are equally balanced. Zimbabwe have started the series well by winning the Only Test and the first ODI so far.

While the ZIM vs BAN 2nd ODI is going on, there is a common question amongst the fans who are closely following this series. The viewers are wondering about the ZIM vs BAN DRS unavailability. Let's find out the reason behind it.

Why There is No DRS in ZIM vs BAN Series?

At a time when almost all the international matches have the Decision Review System (DRS), the technology's unnavailability during the ZIM vs BAN series raises doubts. The DRS is not available in the Zimbabwe vs Bangladesh series due to its high financial costs.

The installation of ball-tracking and UltraEdge, two of the pillars of the Decision Review System, costs high making this technology an expensive one. The ICC usually takes care of the DRS costs during their own tournaments.

However, the host board has to bear the costs of this system during a bilateral series. In this case, it is Zimbabwe Cricket that is hosting this series and they have opted for a low production cost as they are not amongst the richest cricket boards in the world and struggled with financial challenges lately.

Will DRS Absence Affect the Outcome of This Series?

The decision not to have DRS might play a big role in the outcome of the ZIM vs BAN 2026 series. During the second ODI match, Bangladesh opener Tanzid Hasan tried to play a late cut to Sikandar Raza but missed it only for the keeper to take a fine catch behind.

There was a clear sound as the ball passed the bat but the umpire ruled it not out despite the bowler and the wicketkeeper pleading for the wicket. With no DRS, Zimbabwe had no other option but to accept the umpire's decision.

It is possible that the umpire might not have been able to hear the bat's sound due to the band being played inside the stadium. According to the reports, Zimbabwe skipper Richard Ngarava had to ask the band to lower down their sounds after this incident.

Even during the ZIM vs BAN 1st ODI, Bangladesh wicketkeeper Nurul Hasan was dismissed off a tight LBW decision during a crunch time. With no review, he had to accept the umpire's decision and Bangladesh went on to lose the match.