Top cricket umpires meet in Dubai

Dubai: International cricket umpires from around the world assembled in Dubai for a three-day seminar and have returned richer in knowledge about the various laws of the game.

Sixty-five umpires from around the world attended the seminar that was aimed to raise the performance of umpires and referees.

Emirates ICC panel of umpires, associate and affiliate international umpires and Regional Umpire Performance Managers attended the seminar.

The umpires discussed topics including use of artificial lighting, reverse sweeping, substitute fielders and pitch protection.

"This seminar was mainly aimed at discussing the various new playing conditions and to review the various ways to approach them," said James Fitzgerald, the ICC Communications Officer to Gulf News.

"Umpires also shared their experiences with each other and discussed scenarios that can occur during a match. It was more of a learning seminar for the umpires," added Fitzgerald.

At the end of seminar, ICC Umpires and Referees' manager Vince van der Biji said: "I was impressed with the level of energy and commitment that was displayed by everyone across all sections. They were three long days but it was very encouraging to see everyone so involved and attentive."

The decision review system which is under trials was also discussed.

Five leading umpires from different regions were appointed as the Regional Umpires Performance Managers (RUPMs). They are John Holder (Americas and Europe region), Arani Jayaprakash (Asia, including Bangladesh and India), Peter Manuel (Asia, including Pakistan and Sri Lanka), Ian Robinson (Africa), Bob Stratford (Pacific).

"Getting the decisions correct is the key performance area for match officials and therefore it is our primary focus. Massive preparation is required for them to progress to the elite level," said van der Biji.

During the seminar the umpires and referees got to work together with the five RUPMs.

Members of the ICC Associate and Affiliate International Umpires' panel heard a presentation from ICC development manager Andrew Faichneny on the opportunities for them during the year.

The top officials also discussed the need for teamwork and consistent logistical support and to share umpiring development strategies.