The International Cricket Council (ICC) Master Educators, Lauren Agenbag and Thomas Mokorosi have trained 14 umpires in a 3-day Level 1 Umpire Tutors Course at the University of Ghana, Legon Stadium from Tuesday to Thursday, May 27 to 29, 2025.
The Umpires, from the 5 West African Countries; Ghana, Cameroon, Sierra Leone, Mali and the Gambia, have been empowered to train and accredit other umpires in their respective countries.
Participants were taken through various laws of cricket, drills, group tasks, quizzes and effective practical sessions, which brought out the best in them over the period.
Day 1 starting with the exciting Human Bingo, there were presentations on the 5 pillars of the ICC Culture; ‘Teamwork, Communication, Growth Mindset, Performance, and Trust’ after Respect was duly presented by Lauren.
Judging the leg before wicket appeal simulation, handling of Mankad appeals, judging the height of short pitched deliveries and full tosses, the caught law as well as getting into position for run outs at bowler’s end brought smiles to the participants, as they learn.
On Day 2, there was more on team work after which night before match phone call was explained, plus all pre-match role plays. Judging wides and limited overs, as well as a look at umpires’ equipment was exhibited.
The final day wrapped up with non-verbal communication, set up and start of match, Run-out simulations quiz, LBW simulation quiz, tower building team challenge, player management, among others.
Master Educator, Thomas Mokorosi touched on the significance of the course, while appreciating the awareness of the participants.
“The course is to upscale 14 umpire tutors in West Africa for them to be able deliver the ICC level 1 umpiring course in their countries. The vision of ICC is for the local workforce to go out and train umpires in their own countries. We have equipped them and we hope each of them will accredit at least 10 umpires with the ICC level one umpiring qualification in the next 12 months”
“I think the passion is second to none from what I have seen at any other course. Honestly, this group seems so excited and so ambitious to do well as umpire tutors. They quickly took off their umpire hats and put on their umpire tutor caps. Meaning, they are aware of the responsibilities, to light other umpires’ candles and to improve other umpires’ knowledge of the laws of cricket” He added.
Lauren Agenbag, also touched on the impact on the participants, as well as the significance of female participation.
“We want to see young females participate in umpiring because it has been a growing form for the umpires, for the past 7 years now. One big inspiration is to actually see the pathway for them and see other females excelling in that pathway.”
“It has been very insightful. The candidates really seem to enjoy and learn a lot. Some of them mention things they will never forget in their lives, which is brilliant for us to hear, as Master Educators, that’s obviously why we are here, for them to learn and grow.” She noted.
The course ended on the high, while teams and individuals that won tasks were presented with special jerseys from the Master Educators.
At a short closing ceremony, Ghana Cricket Association, Emmanuel Asare threw more light on how the game is growing fast in West Africa and the need for the Umpires to catch up and not relent.
“I will be very happy, to get the feedback, that as you went back, you did not go to sleep. This course is very crucial, because you cannot develop the game without umpires and the ICC has seen its importance.”
“The rest of us in Africa, we want to catch up. So, it is time for you to put to practice whatever you have learnt. Be it even at the school level or the community.” He added.
President of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) Richard Akpokavie Esq, alongside board member Kamal Sulley graced the short closing ceremony.
“You must appreciate what you have taken part in now. Because the future if cricket in your respective countries depends on you, as young people and you are supposed to teach other people and pass on your knowledge to them.” Lawyer Akpokavie said.
Some participants expressed their satisfaction of the course and even asked for more, as they promised to go and impact what they have been imparted into.
“We are more than glad to have participated in this course. We wish it was more than 3-days but all the same, we will train others effectively.”
The ICC as part of its roadmap is not done, but has a level 2 Umpire Tutors course as well in August, where all Level 1 Umpire Tutors, who have accredited more than 30 umpires, will be invited to participate.
Ghana’s Senior Umpire, and Level 1 Umpire Tutor, Bruce Okine, is expected to be invited, as he has trained 30 umpires already in Ghana.
By: Davis Nii Attuquaye Clottey
