The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to organize a four-day-long Level-II Umpiring Course starting tomorrow at its headquarters in Lahore. This course aims to further strengthen the pool of umpires in Pakistan and provide an opportunity for the successful candidates to be inducted into the PCB’s Development Panel of Umpires. The panel members will officiate the district cricket association matches in the upcoming season.
The Level-II Umpiring Course will be attended by 65 candidates who successfully completed the Level-I course in 2021. This marks the first induction into the Development Panel since the 2016-17 season, reflecting the PCB’s commitment to nurturing and expanding the pool of talented umpires in the country.
During the course, the candidates will undergo comprehensive training over the first three days, focusing on enhancing their umpiring skills and knowledge. The final day will feature a written examination and interviews to evaluate the candidates’ understanding of the course material and their suitability for the Development Panel.
The course will be conducted by experienced trainers who are well-versed in umpiring. Ahsan Raza, a member of the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires, along with Asif Yaqoob, a member of the ICC and PCB International Panel of Umpires, and Nasir Hussain from the PCB Elite Panel of Umpires, will serve as the trainers. Their expertise and guidance will ensure that the candidates receive top-notch instruction and guidance throughout the course.
The PCB Panel of Umpires consists of three tiers: Elite, Supplementary, and Development. Umpires begin their careers in the Development Panel and have the opportunity to progress to the Elite Panel based on their performances and abilities.
The 65 candidates selected for the Level-II Umpiring Course were among the 350 candidates who successfully passed the Level-I course in 2021, achieving a minimum score of 60 percent. It is worth noting that the maximum age limit to participate in the Level-II course is 45 years, ensuring a balance between experienced candidates and fresh talent.
The PCB remains committed to improving the standard of umpiring in Pakistan and providing deserving individuals with opportunities to develop their skills and contribute to the growth of cricket in the country. By conducting such courses and expanding the umpiring talent pool, the PCB aims to enhance the overall quality of officiating in domestic matches, paving the way for a brighter future for Pakistan cricket.
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