Nepal Cricket Association Plans to Implement Grading System to Enhance Umpiring Standards

The Nepal Cricket Association is preparing to implement a grading system for umpires for the first time in order to improve their performance standards. The technical committee is monitoring umpire performances and providing suggestions for improvements in discussions with the match referees. Kathmandu, 24 Chaitra.

During a Prime Minister Cup one-day cricket match against Madhesh Province, Lumbini captain Dev Khanal faced a one-match suspension after expressing dissatisfaction with an umpire’s decision. In the final ball of the eighth over, Dev was given out caught behind while attempting an uppercut off a ball bowled by Rupesh Singh. Although the umpire’s decision was out, Dev showed displeasure and remained on the field for some time. Following this, the match referee imposed a one-match ban on him.

In the second edition of the Nepal Premier League, Chitwan Rhinos player Rijan Dhakal was penalized after expressing dissatisfaction over an umpire not giving him out on an LBW appeal during the match against Lumbini Lions. This edition of the LPL has faced intense criticism due to numerous questionable umpiring decisions. Last year, during the Jay Trophy, cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane also pointed out the urgent need for significant improvements in umpiring standards in Nepal through social media.

A senior umpire commented, “Players are punished when they make mistakes, but umpires repeatedly make incorrect decisions without any consequences. If the Cricket Association of Nepal does not take disciplinary action against them, how can umpiring standards improve?” Lumbini Province’s head coach Basant Shahi also expressed dissatisfaction with umpiring standards, stating, “Not only our team but all teams are unhappy with the umpiring decisions. The umpiring standard in the Prime Minister Cup has not been satisfactory and needs improvement.”

CAN spokesperson Chumbi Lama stated, “The issue of umpiring was discussed during the board meeting. Based on the technical committee’s report, a grading system for umpires will be implemented. We believe this will help enhance the quality of umpiring.”