Which batsman was the first player to be given out using a third umpire decision in international cricket?

Introduction / Context:
This question explores a historic moment in cricket technology. The third umpire system, which uses video replays to assist on field umpires, was introduced experimentally before becoming a regular feature. The first batsman ever to be given out after review by a third umpire was a very famous player, and this fact is often asked in cricket related general knowledge.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The topic is the first instance of a batsman being given out through a third umpire decision.
• Four top level batsmen are listed as options.
• We assume the learner knows about the early experiments with television replays in cricket.
• The question refers to international cricket, not domestic matches.

Concept / Approach:
The third umpire system was first used in a Test match in the early nineteen nineties. During this period, Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar was run out after a call was referred upstairs for review. The decision made by the television official marked the first time a batsman was dismissed using this new method. Recognising this link between Tendulkar and the first third umpire dismissal is key to answering the question.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall which player is associated with the earliest use of the third umpire for a run out decision.Step 2: Historical records show that in a Test match between India and South Africa, a close run out involving Sachin Tendulkar was referred to the third umpire.Step 3: The video replay confirmed that he was short of his ground, and the third umpire indicated out, setting a precedent.Step 4: Compare the candidate names with this known incident.Step 5: Select Sachin Tendulkar as the correct answer, since the other listed players are from later eras or unrelated situations.

Verification / Alternative check:
To verify, one can consult cricket history summaries that mention the introduction of the third umpire and note that Tendulkar was the first batsman dismissed using this technology. None of the other names in the options are cited in connection with that specific milestone. This consistency across sources supports the accuracy of the answer.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A, Virat Kohli, belongs to a much later generation and made his debut after the third umpire system was already established. Option B, Graeme Smith, and option C, Jacques Kallis, are South African greats but do not hold the record of being the first player given out through a third umpire decision. These options serve to test whether the learner truly knows the historic detail or is simply guessing based on big names.

Common Pitfalls:
Many candidates assume that a new technology milestone must be associated with a more recent star such as Virat Kohli, overlooking that the third umpire system dates back to the early nineties. Others may remember Tendulkar involvement but wrongly think he was the first to benefit from a not out decision rather than being given out. The safest strategy is to link the phrase first batsman given out by a third umpire directly with Sachin Tendulkar.

Final Answer:
The first batsman to be given out using a third umpire decision in international cricket was Sachin Tendulkar.