Being a cricket umpire is both rewarding and a lot of fun! To get started, you’ll need to join a cricket association and complete umpiring courses. It’s also helpful to study the game’s rules and practice your hand signals. Once you’ve got the hang of the rules and passed your classes, you can begin umpiring for your local cricket league or club!
Part 1: Joining a Cricket Association
Step 1: Find your local cricket association.
Search online for “cricket association near me” or look up your city’s name followed by “cricket association.” If you already play cricket, just check which association your league or club belongs to. To umpire matches, you’ll need to join and meet the umpiring requirements set by the association overseeing the games.
For example, if you want to umpire in southern Australia, you’d join the South Australian Cricket Association (SACA), which manages leagues and clubs in that area.
Step 2: Enroll in umpiring courses offered by your association.
Check your association’s website to see what courses they provide. Some require you to complete all their umpiring courses for certification, so double-check the specific requirements. Plan to attend in-person training at least once a week.
Too busy? See if your association offers online umpiring courses.
Step 3: Pass your cricket association’s umpiring test.
Most associations give a test after you finish training. If you pass, you can apply for membership, which allows you to umpire games in local leagues and clubs under that association.
Part 2: Studying the Game
Step 1: Learn the rules of cricket.
As an umpire, you must know the rules inside out. Even if you already play, refreshing your memory is a good idea. Look up resources online, borrow a cricket book from the library, or take online quizzes to test your knowledge and spot areas to improve.
Step 2: Attend local cricket games and observe the umpires.
If you can’t go in person, watch old matches online. Pay attention to where umpires stand, their hand signals, and how they interact with players and coaches. Watching real umpires helps you understand how to act on the field.
Step 3: Learn the different umpire signals.
Umpires use hand signals to communicate with scorers, players, and spectators. Memorize all of them to do your job well. For a full list of signals, check out: https://www.icc-cricket.com/video/310706
- No ball? Stretch your right arm out parallel to the ground.
- One hour left? Hold your left arm out and point to your watch with your right hand.
- Need to cancel the last signal? Cross your arms and place your hands on your shoulders.
Part 3: Being a Good Umpire
Step 1: Follow your cricket association’s rules.
Some associations tweak certain rules for their leagues. Make sure you know these adjustments so you don’t make wrong calls. Your training should cover these, but ask if you’re unsure.
Example: Junior-level cricket might have more relaxed rules than advanced matches.
Step 2: Communicate with the other umpire on the field.
Cricket matches usually have two umpires. Stay aware of what the other umpire is doing and signal when needed. They might catch something you miss, and vice versa. Before the game, discuss rules and signals so you’re both on the same page.
Step 3: Be friendly and encouraging.
Show good sportsmanship by staying fair and impartial. As an umpire, you set the standard for behavior on the field. Stay calm, don’t get upset, and keep things positive—smile and let everyone see you’re enjoying the game!