About Umpires
Match officials and umpires in cricket are selected and trained through a structured process overseen by cricket boards and governing bodies such as the International Cricket Council (ICC). Aspiring umpires typically begin at the grassroots level, officiating in local club or school matches. To qualify, they must complete basic umpiring courses conducted by their national cricket boards. These courses cover the laws of cricket, match management, and decision-making. After gaining experience and demonstrating proficiency in officiating at domestic levels, umpires can be promoted to officiate in regional or first-class matches. National boards evaluate their performance through reports, video analysis, and feedback from players and match referees.
Umpires
Development of match officials
For umpires to progress to officiating in larger venues and significant international matches, continuous development is essential. National boards nominate outstanding umpires to the ICC’s International Panel, where they undergo advanced training and participate in workshops focused on high-pressure decision-making, technology integration (like DRS), and managing player conduct. Those who excel at the international level are selected for the ICC Elite Panel, which comprises the world’s top umpires assigned to major events such as Test matches, the ICC World Cup, and T20 tournaments. Performance reviews, fitness assessments, and feedback ensure consistent growth and maintain standards, enabling umpires to build their reputation and gain opportunities on the global stage.