Preparation: The game begins before the game begins
(The following notes are based on a PowerPoint presentation given to an emerging umpire group in Australia)
Rod Tucker
In Rod’s feedback there is an immediate statement of ‘We’ i.e. teamwork is implicit in
everything he writes and reflects on. (A number of workshops had taken place in Dubai,
immediately preceding the CWC, on the topic of LBW and DRS decision making – Rod, Billy,
and Marais were present at all the workshops). Despite this ‘official’ preparation all three
umpires were anxious to ensure that nothing should go wrong i.e. there should be no mixed
messages or ambiguity in communications between them and the television director - hence
the emphasis on ‘critical scenarios’ that would be challenging for on-field umpires/TV
umpire/TV director communications. They planned for the unexpected or ‘unique’ scenarios
that could generate technical/emotional/physical challenges.
All the technical aspects of the review were discussed – in relation to ICC CWC Playing
Regulations. Rod’s feedback indicates that a collective responsibility was agreed and
accepted for decision making in relation to the DRS system. These informal, detailed
discussions, gave a collective confidence to the umpires. They arrived at the match prepared
for a number of potential outcomes that they could face – and deal with – confidently and
professionally. Rehearsal and visioning were positive, reinforcing aspects of these informal
discussions.
Read the last sentence of Rod’s feedback again – “The most important part of this
decision was done pre-match with our preparation”. This is a very powerful statement:
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A plan of action had been agreed – a predicted event had triggered this plan into
action
Everyone was prepared – individual responsibilities were agreed – there were no
surprises
Everyone enjoyed the process as it unfolded – they had individual and collective
ownership of the event
Rod has a high inner locus of control. (see page 13 for an explanation)
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The event confirmed their professionalism and expertise – to themselves, to players,
and to all stakeholders
Informal, focused discussions gave these umpires confidence. This confidence was a
key element in their overall performance
All three umpires were in a very positive frame of mind. They knew they could deal
with the likely challenges of this critical scenario – and other critical scenarios
Lessons from this example:
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Focused preparation gives you confidence to deal with critical situations
appropriately
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Visualisation (or mental imagery – see glossary on page 13) allows you to experience
the emotions and pressure of a situation – free of the context. When the context
arises your mind and body are prepared and are much more likely to deal with the
situation in a positive, confident manner. You are not surprised. You know what is
required and you know what you have to do.
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There is no ‘I’ in Teamwork – focused team preparation delivers focused team
performance
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Once the routines of shared preparation are established [this is a challenge for you!]
and acted on the umpiring group becomes a stronger, more professional, and more
confident unit. The impact of this confidence is cumulative. The group becomes
stronger and more cohesive because individuals know they can rely on each other to
play their individual part. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
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The successful outcome achieved through this type of preparation confirms the
team’s expertise and competence. If, in the future, you experience self-doubt you are
much more likely to recover quickly and confidently by drawing on past examples of
successful expertise in action. Focused preparation is a powerful, formative element
of your individual growth as a person, and an umpire.
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Focused preparation allows you to enjoy your umpiring!
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Simon Taufel
(In Simon’s comprehensive feedback he refers to discussions that had taken place in Dubai
regarding Tahir. Simon had prepared a series of short video clips to demonstrate the
demands that a range of bowlers, especially spinners, place on umpires. The issues
discussed in Dubai are given relevance and credibility by specific examples of Tahir’s
behaviour). Teamwork is implicit in everything he writes and reflects on
This is a great example of a team ethic – created and developed through the sharing of key
information. Some of the CWC umpires (especially the 6 International panel members
included) had not stood in games involving Tahir. Simon’s observations are factual, precise
and specific. He is descriptive in his analysis and he also recommends specific ways in
which the umpire can deal with the challenges that Tahir presents. He translates observation
into suggested behaviour/specific routine. This is a very informed synopsis – achieved in 3
sentences!
Read the last part of the penultimate sentence again – “.. be prepared!”. Imagine you are
the recipient of this information – how might it help your approach to a game involving Tahir?
Specifically, it may give you confidence because:
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You are more informed – information is gold!
You are less likely to be surprised by this bowler’s behaviour – you are able to
anticipate his actions – anticipation gives you a heightened sense of alertness –
alertness gives you confidence and keeps you ‘in the moment’.
You are the recipient of shared information. You are part of a valued team. You are
more likely to share your observations as a result of trust and acceptance of a team
ethic. The sharing of information benefits everyone!
You are able to visualise and rehearse a response to aspects of this bowler’s
behaviour. This adds to your cumulative experience and confidence in successfully
dealing with critical challenges.
Simon’s recommendations are both physical and mental. His suggestions are
instructive and informed – they give you informed options – should you wish to
explore them.
Simon took the lead by obtaining information, and video footage, about Tahir – he
didn’t wait to be given it – he was proactive in educating himself – he has a high
inner locus of control.
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Simon Taufel
This is a great example of the Laws and Playing Regulations in action. This information
generates a consistent approach to umpire response and behaviour. Look at the last
sentence again: “- need to be vigilant here”. This advice illustrates a commitment to a team
ethic because:
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You are more informed – information is gold!
A team approach relies on the dissemination and sharing of information
Consistency in umpire behaviour and expectations cements confidence amongst
umpires - and players’ respect and confidence in umpires
The umpire team is able to speak from a common agenda – this tells players that
they (the players) are dealing with a group of umpires who communicate throughout
a tournament – they are an informed group with a common purpose – not a collection
of isolated individuals
Notice the wording – ‘we’ and ‘our’ are used. This reminds the umpiring group of its
collective responsibility.
This feedback is also about leadership. Rod and Simon have taken on the responsibility of
informing the umpiring team about developments and potential challenges in the tournament
from the South African team. This type of dissemination does not happen by chance – it
requires individuals to ‘step up to the mark’ and show tangible support for colleagues by
taking the lead in sharing relevant information:
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This is another example of the Laws and Playing Regulations in action. As in the previous
example from Simon this information enables a consistent approach to be taken with a
specific team. The consistency in applying ICC Playing Conditions benefits everyone in the
game. Note the use of the word ‘we’. This feedback demonstrates:
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Leadership and the acceptance of responsibility
A concern for colleagues to be forewarned and informed about potential player/team
critical behaviours
A subtle intervention technique, shared with colleagues, aimed at allowing the game
to run smoothly without the need for ‘heavy-handed’ officiating
Respect for the Spirit of the Game and its application
Respect for players – evidenced by applying the Spirit of the Game with impartiality
to all, and demonstrating empathy
A high inner ‘locus of control’ by the umpire – umpires can assert their control
over these critical situations by being prepared and proactive – they can make things
happen.
Consider the impact that this quality of observation and advice has on the umpiring team. It
gives:
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Group confidence – ‘you are not alone’
Group cohesion – we are all ‘singing from the same sheet’
More information to take into a game. A possible distraction or challenge has been
eliminated and turned into an opportunity for you to demonstrate your preparedness
and professionalism – information is gold
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This is another example of the Laws in action, and another excellent demonstration of
leadership and assertiveness by elite umpires. A collective decision has been reached
concerning the Spirit of the Game. Note the use of the words ‘us’ and ‘we’. This feedback
demonstrates:
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Pro-active, professional, and positive umpiring with a high level of internal locus of
control
Comprehensive knowledge, understanding, interpretation, and application of the
Laws - applying the Spirit of the Laws for the benefit of all involved in the game
Leadership, and confidence in doing the right thing
A willingness to share information, and offer informed advice
A deep respect for the game and players
An empathic approach to the players – ‘putting yourself in their place’ to demand
consistent fairness
A supportive, team ethic
Informed and skilled observation
Clear, unambiguous, and focused writing skills
The strength of taking more information into a game. A possible distraction or
challenge has been eliminated and turned into an opportunity for you to demonstrate
your preparedness and professionalism – by being pro-active, a colleague has
facilitated a level of anticipation about this player’s behaviour that you may not have
had - information is gold
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Steve Davis
Steve is referring to the same bowler (Andre Russell) as Simon on the previous page. Steve
provides a very succinct synopsis of the actions taken and gives expert advice to his
colleagues. The first slide refers specifically to the incident where Steve was the bowler’s
end umpire – “I” is used to illustrate his direct involvement. Note the change of language on
the second slide – “we discussed”; “As a group”; “we agreed”. This is an excellent example
of inclusive, pro-active leadership. Teamwork is implicit in everything he writes and
reflects on.
Expert advice and recommendations are offered. The suggested response to any similar,
critical incident is clear, concise, and unambiguous. Note the inclusion of the Coach,
Manager, and Match Referee in discussions. The actions taken were immediate and
decisive. This is a great example of support for colleagues – summarised by Steve in 4
sentences. As in the previous page – this feedback demonstrates:
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Pro-active, professional, and positive umpiring
Comprehensive knowledge, understanding, interpretation, and application of the
Laws - applying the Spirit of the Laws for the benefit of all involved in the game
Leadership, and confidence in doing the right thing
A willingness to share information, and offer informed advice
A deep respect for the game and players, demonstrating empathy
A supportive, team ethic
Informed and skilled observation
Clear, unambiguous, and focused writing skills
The strength of taking more information to take into a game. A possible distraction or
challenge has been eliminated and turned into an opportunity for you to demonstrate
your preparedness and professionalism – by being pro-active, a colleague has
facilitated a level of anticipation about this player’s behaviour that you may not have
had - information is gold
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Preparation: World Cup 2011 Denis Burns
Steve Davis
Steve shares a very personal insight into his preparation before the Cricket World Cup
quarter-final. This is a classic example of the technique of ‘visualisation’ and positive
reflection. He has a high inner locus of control. Consider the powerful effect on Steve’s
level of confidence prior to the match:
He chooses positive reinforcement by reviewing a very successful game in the same
tournament. By choosing this positive option he also chooses to eliminate negative
thoughts from his preparation. It is a very succinct example of engendering upbeat selfaffirmation, confidence, and high self-esteem through video analysis:
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He re-lives the emotional high of success – his mind and body undergo the same
reactions as they did during the actual events being viewed.
He confirms that he is an excellent decision maker – he gets it right – time and time
again!
He enjoys being in that moment – at that time – and the same feelings will happen
again – he is predicting his own success
This affirmation will act as a counter-force if he experiences doubt – it will aid a rapid
recovery from a potential setback
He knows he is an excellent umpire – he relives the pride and satisfaction that come
with success
He relives the respect and acknowledgement of colleagues, players, and
commentators from the games he is viewing
He knows he gets the “tight” decisions right – and he knows he can back himself
again if a similar situation arises – he is ready for it – and he is up for it
His focused, positive thinking has become an intuitive routine – this is a very
powerful routine to have
Read through the two slides (above) again. Steve’s language is positive throughout – there
is no self-doubt or hesitant phrasing – it is the essence of self-belief. Self-belief is gold
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Bruce Oxenford
Bruce shares some expertly focused observations with us. Why did he choose to prepare in
this way?, and on this occasion? (this was only one aspect of his preparation). This is a
scientific, evidence-based example of umpiring preparation. He is assessing evidence here –
his conclusions are based on observable evidence – umpiring is not a guessing game.
Bruce had limited experience of pitches in India. He wanted to focus specifically on ‘height’
in relation to LBW appeals. Treadwell’s debut was a challenge for Bruce. Read the first slide
(above) again and consider the depth and focus of observations with regard to the practice
and playing surfaces. After considering Bruce’s approach to this game you may have
discussed the following key learning points for umpires, specifically Bruce:
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Was positive and proactive in educating himself about a bowler he was unfamiliar
with
Created time and space for himself to observe, and record specific information
Asked himself the question “what challenges do these observations present to me as
an umpire?” i.e. he was preparing to construct a response based on the data he was
collecting – this is a powerful way of learning. He was using a similar visioning
technique to Steve (see previous page) – not just observing – he was rehearsing for
the game.
Boosted his own confidence and self-esteem through rehearsed decision making –
consider the language used in the above slides – it is positive and focused – he was
more likely to use this language in ‘mental self-talk’ during the game because the
language was rehearsed
Has an expert knowledge and understanding of the LBW Law and its application –
evidenced in the quality of his writing and analysis
Demonstrates leadership, he takes responsibility for his own learning
Demonstrates a willingness to share information, and offer informed advice to
colleagues teamwork is implicit in everything he writes and reflects on
Demonstrates a supportive, team ethic through sharing information
Demonstrates informed and critical observation skills
Demonstrates clear, unambiguous, and focused writing skills
Demonstrates his professional commitment and concern to get his decisions right by
informing himself – information is gold
He has a high inner locus of control
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Daryl Harper
Daryl’s shares a number of informed, expert observations with us. His feedback is a cameo
of observation, focus, analysis, anticipation, and response. Look at the slides above and
note the inclusive use of ‘we’ in relation to the umpiring team and groundstaff. Teamwork is
implicit in everything he writes and reflects on. The language used is positive and
assertive.
A number of key actions have been anticipated because of critical weather conditions. Key
personnel are involved – and they are prepared for a number of scenarios. Daryl, Rod, and
Moni prepare as a team – and, as a consequence, act as a team. A number of responses
have been rehearsed and the team has minimised the possibility of being unprepared in
relation to weather conditions.
Lessons from this example:
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Focused, team preparation minimises ambiguity and instils confidence in the team –
they are ready to deal with critical challenges
A proactive team is viewed as a professional unit by stakeholders – the team is seen
to be concerned and working to ensure the game runs smoothly
Signals have been rehearsed with regard to the anticipated rope sweep – nothing
has been left to chance
Local knowledge is a key issue here – Moni was aware of the impact of the dew and
humid conditions on the condition of the ball – he supplied key information – (see
th
page 12, Challenges for You, 4 bullet point) information is gold
Collective leadership demonstrates professionalism and respect for the game and its
traditional values – umpiring is about action
The self-esteem and confidence of the whole team has been boosted.
A possible distraction has been turned into an opportunity to demonstrate awareness
and expertise
No dramas, no fuss, a number of informal conversations have ensured the game will
run as smoothly as possible
Daryl has a high inner locus of control
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The exchanges between Graham Swann and the umpires are worth noting. Because of prematch discussions (see previous page) the umpire team were prepared for a flurry of
requests, and they had expert knowledge and understanding of the Playing Conditions (PCs)
– they knew what was – and what was not permitted within the PCs. Because of this level of
focused preparation, and anticipation, Daryl and Rod were able to rehearse a range of
possible responses - they were not taken by surprise – they were confident they could deal
with any request.
They had also discussed the need to control their emotions. This is an excellent, and
powerful, example of focused, mental toughness:
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By rehearsing their responses the umpires were able to visualise their own
behaviours in anticipation of challenges from players – the power of visualisation is a
recurring theme with Simon, Steve, Rod, Daryl, and Bruce.
Visualisation simulates the physical and mental (emotional) scenarios that are likely
to occur – Daryl and Rod were physically and mentally prepared for critical scenarios
– they were in control of themselves and their emotions.
There is a very strong, inclusive, team ethic in this level of preparation
This is an example of proactive leadership – leaders anticipate the responses that
may be needed – they are not taken by surprise – they are prepared for any critical
eventuality
Mental toughness enables you to deal with challenges and confrontations in a
controlled and professional manner – compare the professionalism of Daryl with the
lack of control exhibited by Swann
Teamwork facilitates a consistent approach to behaviours. Read through Daryl’s
feedback again - Teamwork is implicit in everything he writes and reflects on
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Key Learning Outcomes: The game begins before the game begins
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Effective Communication is the underlying principle which permeates the
feedback in these notes
Focused preparation takes many forms – individual and team
Focused preparation minimises potential distractions and maximises your capacity to
successfully overcome challenges
Positive self-talk strengthens your capacity to deal successfully with critical
challenges
Think positively, talk positively, maintain a high inner locus of control
Teamwork is vital for consistency of approach
Visualisation is a powerful aid to confidence and mental toughness
Support your team, on and off the field – respect them and include them in your
preparations, be truly empathic
Being professional is about doing what needs to be done in order to ensure the job
gets done properly
Be a leader, take the lead – think ahead and anticipate challenges
“Failure is instructive. The person who really thinks
learns quite as much from his failures as from his
successes”.
John Dewey
Challenges for you:
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How will you establish consistency in your umpiring? And how will you maintain this
approach in your umpiring work next season?
How will you help to create a learning environment of cooperation and trust amongst
the stakeholders you work with?
How will you overcome any anxieties you may have about working with more
experienced colleagues?
If you haven’t got the information you need – will you take responsibility for getting it?
(see page 10 – Daryl, Rod, and Moni – 4th bullet point)
How will you deal with strong, dominant personalities? (See page 11 – Graham Swann).
There is no place for a submissive personality in umpiring!
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Many thanks to Simon Taufel, Steve Davis, Daryl Harper, Rod Tucker, and Bruce Oxenford for
giving their time, expertise, and advice. Their contribution has enabled us to share valuable
experiences with you.
Glossary and references:
Visualization
A practice by which you can deliberately change the way you feel,
your level of arousal, and your behaviour by placing yourself in a
specific context. It can be used to improve performance. The more
detail you create in your visualization, the more powerful it will be for
you. You could use a method of association like: viewing video
footage of your successful decision making whilst listening to your
favourite piece of music – when you hear the music again – you
associate it with success – it sounds, and feels, better.
Locus of control:
A concept used in psychology. It refers to personal beliefs about
whom or what controls an individual’s response to events. People with
a ‘high internal locus of control’ believe that it is their behaviour that
determines events. They are active in their own learning – they seek
information to help them.
People with a ‘high external locus of control’ (or low internal locus)
believe that others (people/events/environment/ control them. Look
back at the feedback from the umpires in these notes. Do they
have a high or a low internal locus of control? (See Simon’s
feedback on page 5 as an example) For further general reading see:
Selk, J. (2009), 10 – Minute Toughness, The mental training program
for winning before the game begins, McGraw-Hill, New York
For detailed reading (borrow this one from a library if you’re really
interested – very expensive!):
Hand, P. (2008), Psychological Resilience: The Influence of Positive
and Negative Life Events Upon Optimism, Hope, and Perceived Locus
of Control, VDM Verlag, Saarbrücken,
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