About Umpires

History

The RDCA Umpires Association began in 1955 under the founding Presidency of Reg. Johnston who saw the need to create a group of independent adjudicators for the higher grade matches of the Association and interest in playing cricket was growing at a rapid rate. Being an umpire was, and is, seen as a natural progression for players wanting to retain their involvement in the game while placing less stress on their aging bodies.

The dedication of our panel members is appreciated by all who seek independent management of match situations and we continually strive to improve our knowledge of the Laws and local Rules as well as match management skills to contribute to cricket matches free from any undesirable aspects. Rarely are we unsuccessful.

​

Spirit of Cricket

Cricket is a game that owes much of its unique appeal to the fact that it should be played not only within its Laws but also within the Spirit of the Game.

Any action which is seen to abuse this spirit causes injury to the game itself. The major responsibility for ensuring the spirit of fair play rests with the captains.

​

Respect

The RDCA expects that all players and officials apply themselves in all matters pertaining to cricket with respect for the ideals under which cricket should be played.

Not only do the objectives of our Association project “the playing and fostering of cricket, free from any objectionable features, and the better acquaintance and fellowship of the players” but The Laws of Cricket devotes a specific section on the spirit of the game and the responsibility of captains, with whom major onus rests, and players to ensure that the game is not injured by unwarranted actions.

All players, officials and spectators involved in RDCA matches are expected to:

Respect the Rules and Laws under which the matches operate. This includes possessing a good knowledge of the Laws and Rules of the game and applying them without fear or favour.

Respect your own captain and team. It is a privilege for you to represent your club on the field of play; no matter in what level of cricket you are involved. Reciprocate by conducting yourself with decorum while always endeavouring to do your best.

Respect your opposition players. While acknowledging that good natured banter is acceptable as part of the modern game, comments should be restricted to the conduct of the match and must never degenerate to what may be construed as personal abuse. There is no place for any act of violence on or off the playing field during the course of play.

Respect the Role of the Umpires. Umpires, whether officially appointed or volunteers, are expected to control the game, as required by the Laws and rules, with absolute impartiality. Captains, players and umpires alike must uphold this basic essential of the game.

Respect the Spirit of the Game and its Traditional Values. It is against the Spirit of the Game:

• To dispute an umpire’s decision by word, action or gesture

• To direct abusive language towards and opponent or umpire

• To indulge in cheating or any sharp practice eg:

  • To appeal knowing that the batsman is not out

  • To advance towards an umpire in an aggressive manner when appealing

  • To seek to distract an opponent either verbally or by harassment with persistent clapping or unnecessary noise under the guise of enthusiasm and motivation of one’s own side.

Captains and umpires together set the tone for the conduct of a cricket match. Every player is expected to make an important contribution to this. It is expected by the RDCA Senior Committee that all umpires, players, officials and spectators will adhere to the Spirit of Cricket and, should they witness behaviour unbecoming to the game, bring such actions to the notice of the RDCA Senior Secretary, through appropriate channels, for action.

Not to do so will devalue the spirit of this great game.