BCCI starts English language course for umpires

The Cricket Board (BCCI)) has commenced a course for umpires on English language and communication skills as part of its educational and development programme for the match officials.

The first batch underwent training from July 12 to 16 and the second commenced in Mumbai on Tuesday and would continue till July 23, the BCCI has announced on its website.

The course has been designed by the British Council along with the International Cricket Council and is aimed at equipping the match officials with requisite communication skills.

While the course focused on language skills in its first year (2015), it was customised for the umpires by adding language and communication skills to the curriculum.

Aspects like the language to be used (phrasing the concern or matter) to communicate to the captains/players during the game; conducting meetings and communicating to the third umpire were addressed.

The programme is made interactive by conducting role- plays, mock meetings, simulating situations and using other modes to make the course practical, BCCI explained on its website.