Harare, Zimbabwe: Irish umpire Roly Black has arrived in Zimbabwe as part of the umpiring panel at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier starting on Sunday, and is busy preparing with his umpiring colleagues for four weeks of competitive action.
“It’s great to finally be here – I have never umpired in Zimbabwe before, the closest to these conditions was the Under-19 World Cup in South Africa in 2020. In the lead-up to the tournament, we will umpire in two warm-up matches, which will allow us to have a better understanding of how the pitches will play in regard to pace, bounce, and spin.
“In terms of the tournament, match officials are fully aware of the importance and magnitude of such events to both players and participating countries. We have just finished a comprehensive two-day workshop to ensure that we as a match officials group, are as best prepared as possible.
“There’s welcome news that we’ll have the assistance of DRS for the Super Six stage of the tournament – at this level, there is always going to be scrutiny and pressure in what you do, it is all part of the role, so such support is invaluable. Despite how pressurized the fixture may be to the teams on the field, however, as an umpire you can’t let the pressure consume you. It is important that you embrace it, rise to the challenge, trust your processes, and do everything you can to work towards a positive outcome.”
“It was really good to get back into multiday mode again, many would say the purest format of the game. There are many different challenges in the longer format, general match management, bowlers bowling longer spells, close fielders around the bat, fitness and concentration especially going into days three or four.”
“Non-match days can also be busy with post-match debriefs, self-reflection, recovery in the gym, preparation for your next game, such as TV simulations or research on players. We could also be traveling between Harare and Bulawayo. To get away from the intensity of a tournament like the Qualifiers, downtime for me is just chilling and connecting with family at home, going to the gym, or watching a movie or boxset that I have downloaded. If the opportunity arises, I would hope to embrace some of the local culture or visit some of the well know local attractions.”
