THE eagerly-awaited exchange programme, conceptualised by the West Indies Cricket Umpires

Association (WICUA) some time ago, is set to get on stream shortly.

According to a release from the WICUA, “the objective was, and still is, to afford the opportunity
for its members, the opportunity to visit differing territories. Although mainly to officiate as
umpires one can also experience the diverse cultures throughout the Region which we need to
share.”

The WICUA said it hopes the programme will produce a much stronger and more dynamic
membership thereby creating a stronger and closer bond between the territories.
The programme was set to start a few years ago, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, much

impetus was lost although two members were fortunate to travel, thereby creating a first.
“We are now set to take this whole concept forward with great strides and vivacity, coupled with
fully thought-out operational planning, in the hope that the guidelines set out, will be of great
mileage to the members of the WICUA.”

The programme is primarily focused on the non-panel members and is geared for two weekends
to allow for participation in a multi-day match.

Each territory is required to submit two persons to the organising committee and those names
will be rotated on a two-yearly cycle.

The WICUA further pointed out that each territory shall submit to the Secretary of the WICUA,
the period (start to finish) of the cricket season since this information is crucial for the organising
committee so as to inform the participating individuals about the choice made.

The WICUA will provide a stipend to the umpires to assist with travel expenses and will receive
and review all reports pertaining to the assignments and payment of match fees commensurate with the going rate within that territory/region.
All communication will be channelled through the WICUA Secretariat so as to ensure
information is disseminated to the entire body.

Umpires are required to provide detailed report of assignment/experience to the WICUA at the
end of their assignment. This report is to cover on and off the field of play experiences.
The implementation of this policy will help to create a framework/data-bank which will ensure a
clear delineation of responsibilities, thus fostering a successful and collaborative exchange
programme within the region while providing education, opportunity and a more unified
organisation. (Frederick Halley)