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COMMUNICATING WITH PLAYERS

You must always be ready to communicate

Show a willingness to be 'available'

You should be a good listener and have a genuine interest in the application of the Laws because interaction between umpires and players will foster acceptance and mutual respect. Never admit to making a mistake or offer an apology for an error

Walk towards the bowler at the end of an over

If you have been holding the bowler's sweater or cap, approach him at the end of the over to return them to him. Never volunteer information or try to justify a decision you have made in the over and if the bowler asks for an explanation, answer with an even voice be as non-committal as possible (I couldn't give that out!) and show complete confidence about your decision making

Role of captain

The captain may think he has a right to approach you about some of your decisions and some aspects of the Laws. He does not. If, however, he queries a decision, you are quite within your rights to refuse to give any explanation until the match is over and, even then, you might decide to do nothing more than explain the Law. On the other hand, you may choose to give a simple explanation, such as 'not enough travelling distance' or 'the noise could have been bat on pad - I couldn't be sure', but do not enter into a prolonged discussion. As you become more experienced a different degree of detail can be used when explaining your decisions. Even if you feel upset about the players lack of acceptance of your decision, never become abusive towards the players, you will lose their respect

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