PRESIDENT of the West Indies Cricket Umpires Association (WICUA), Vivian Johnson, has disclosed that the eagerly anticipated exchange programme among member territories is set to take off with the USA and Jamaica among the two countries ready to accept their counterparts from other countries.

Johnson made the disclosure during his address to members of the Canada Cricket Umpires Association (CCUA) at their annual luncheon, staged at Windies Restaurant & Sports Bar, Scarborough, Ontario, on Sunday.
The WICUA President pointed out that he was confident that the programme would be a success, while urging the CCUA members to get involved.
Based on the parameters for the programme, it’s primarily focused on non-panel members with each territory submitting two umpires to the organising committee. These names are to be rotated on a two-year cycle.
In addition, 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.
In a recent release, the WICUA said it will provide a stipend to the umpires to assist with travel expenses, the amount to be determined by the organisation. The WICUA will also receive and review all reports pertaining to the assignments.
The WICUA release pointed out that “the implementation of the 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.”
At last Sunday’s luncheon, which also served to present certificates to several CCUA members, and those who completed the TV Umpiring Course, held in Atlanta late last year, the WICUA President pointed out that certificates that are earned are very important for umpires and likened them to gaining a PHD.
Johnson reserved special kudos for CCUA President Azad Khan who was appointed Honorary Secretary of the WICUA. He said it’s a mighty step that calls for lots of diligence and Khan has hit the ground running and has been doing a fantastic job.
The WICUA President also urged members to attend the association’s Convention which is slated to be held in Trinidad & Tobago from July 12-19, pointing out that it’s also a way of thawing off from the Winter “we are currently experiencing here.”
Johnson also disclosed that the WICUA Training Committee is in the process of training trainers from the respective territorial boards so that they can be better equipped to manage their portfolios. (Frederick Halley)