The 2019/20 season thus far has seen considerable activity in the umpiring space. Cricket Wellington (CW) and Cricket Wellington Umpires and Scorers Incorporated (CWUSI) have continued to work together on a series of new initiatives and these are highlighted below:
Trainee Umpires
Through an increase in online advertisements Cricket Wellington have received 30 expressions of interest from prospective umpires. Eight are actively training with the aspiration of umpiring shortly while another nine are actively umpiring junior or youth cricket – two umpires have made the transition to senior club cricket. The success of these online advertisements shows that prospective umpires do exist, and Cricket Wellington will be increasing targeted marketing in 2020/21.
Appointment Statistics
The season to date has seen an increase in umpiring appointments in premier men’s cricket. In the Pearce and Hazlett one day competitions 84% of fixtures have had at least one umpire – an increase from 70.5% in 2018/19. The T20 competition has also seen a considerable increase with 93.5% of games having at least one umpire versus 79% in 2018/19. Cricket Wellington are striving for full coverage and new umpires will be gradually introduced into premier cricket once they are capable.
Umpiring Database
New Zealand Cricket with the support of Major and District Associations has established the first national umpiring database. This database will be used to communicate directly with umpires and online learning modules are being developed to help upskill officials. Additionally, to acknowledge their excellent work umpires received free tickets to the New Zealand v England series at the beginning of the 2019/20 season.
Cricket Wellington Activity
Cricket Wellington have increased their investment in community umpiring and have held stakeholder meetings with other codes, existing and former umpires and regularly engage with the Board of CWSUI, Chairman and Appointments Officer. Cricket Wellington are eager to speak with members of our community about umpiring – if you have any ideas or suggestions please contact Matt Wills (matt@cricketwellington.co.nz)
Cricket Wellington Request
A shortage of officials is a whole of cricket problem and Cricket Wellington implores clubs to continue supporting new and existing umpires in any way possible. It is vital that an environment is created where umpires can enjoy themselves and wish to return week on week. If your club has any former or current members interested in umpiring, please communicate this to Cricket Wellington.
Article added: Tuesday 28 January 2020
