Former ICC elite panel umpire Simon Taufel has been appointed as the consultant of the BCB’s umpires’ education department, while Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid Saikat was named as the head of the department on Saturday.
Taufel, who signed a two-year contract with the BCB, said the programme would focus on education, transparency and long-term development to lift umpiring standards in the country.
‘I’m here to help create and support a better environment for umpires and referees to explore their potential and to grow,’ Taufel told reporters at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Saturday.
‘We need to identify talent, set minimum standards and build a merit-based system so the right umpires can go forward.’
The Australian, who had stood in 74 Tests, 174 ODIs, and 34 T20Is before turning to umpire education, stressed that the process would take time.
‘It takes 10 years to become an overnight success. Having worked with the BCCI system, we saw a long period where India had no elite panel umpire. Then S Ravi came through, followed by Nitin Menon. That is the type of commitment required. I’m not saying it will take another 10 years here, but it’s a long journey.’
He will begin his work with the National Cricket League T20 starting today, where he will observe and work with local umpires.
‘Watching the NCL will give me insight into the performances of 30 match officials and how the system can be improved,’ he said.
Saikat, the first Bangladeshi to make it to the ICC elite panel, will work closely with Taufel on implementing the plan.Â
‘It takes resilience and determination to become an elite umpire. There are no shortcuts. Respect for umpires is a bit lacking here, but I believe this initiative will change that,’ he said.
The 47-year-old recalled his debut in international umpiring alongside Taufel.Â
‘I made my ODI debut with him in my first two matches. He was more than just an umpire. He worked for many years in umpire education. I have always admired him, and I hope this progress continues with Simon.’
The project will also seek to expand opportunities for women umpires and referees.
‘One of the things we’ve got to do here is provide more access, more opportunities. Saikat is a testament to that system. I’m hoping he’s not the last,’ said Taufel.
Taufel and Saikat remained hopeful to bring more ICC elite panel umpires from Bangladesh.