As a people we are indeed living
in a changing world. Some persons are afraid of changes and for diverse reasons. From the outset changes are affected for
better and not for worse, however sometimes the dreams and the aspirations are not achieved, this brings to fore such words
as failure, disappointment and grief. Conversely more often than not you hear of joy, success, progress
and just reward.
As umpires there has been significant changes in the umpiring landscape, the numbers
required for some category of matches have been severely tailored to the point that some umpires felt not motivated, whilst
some have experienced financial and status driven reward and are extremely happy.
The truth has always
been that changes are intended for good. Umpires need to look at the bright side and remain focused. At all stages not every
umpire would have made it to the Elite or ICC Panel or the WICB Regional Panel. This should not in any way be a hindrance,
instead an umpire should work hard to reach the top with determination.
Cricket umpiring should
not be seen as offering a service for free, it is a business and it has pay days. This therefore should
provide the drive, the impetus thus acting as a stimulus for one’s motivation. Notwithstanding however WICUA has a duty
to be, if not ahead of the game, at least should be close to it. WICUA ought to provide the leadership necessary to keep hopes
and aspirations alive. There are ways that WICUA can forge, which may assist in enhancing the quality of
umpiring life. One such way is to organize and work with territories in trying to establish an Umpires
Exchange Programme within WICUA. This is actively under consideration for the future.