How to become an umpire in India: Eligibility, process, and salary

Many cricket enthusiasts aspire to become involved in the sport, and one way to do so is by becoming a cricket umpire. If you are wondering how to become a cricket umpire in India, what the process entails, the qualifications required, and if any exams need to be taken, let's explore the answers to these questions.

Start at the State Level

To become a cricket umpire, you need to start at the state level. There are usually no job openings or advertisements for umpiring positions. You need to stay in touch with your state cricket association and stay updated regularly. Periodically, examinations are conducted as per the need, and those who pass them are selected. When vacancies appear, you should apply, and then you will be invited for the examination. The process usually starts at the state level.

You Don't Necessarily Have to Play Cricket

To enter this field, you don't have to be an active cricket player. However, you should have a comprehensive knowledge of the game. You should know all 42 cricket rules and other minute details. While playing cricket isn't necessary, understanding the game inside out is. It all starts at the state level, and upon selection, a four to five-day certification program is conducted at the state level. After a few years of working, you can apply for the BCCI umpiring exam.

Pass the BCCI Exam

The examination process involves passing two levels. The first level is a written test, which you need to clear to proceed to the second level, which includes practical and oral tests. The examination is held by the respective State Cricket Associations, and you should start from here.

After passing level 1, you must complete the State Level Umpire Certification Program, similar to a state-level workshop. After this, you need to clear a theory test to become an umpire.

Upon completing this, you need to take the BCCI Refresher Course, which takes about a year. After passing the BCCI Refresher Course, you can appear for the Level 2 examination, which is now possible without going through a re-examination process. Clearing level 1 allows you to qualify for level 2. Passing both levels makes you eligible to be appointed as a BCCI umpire.

Essential Qualities

To become an umpire, besides being passionate about cricket, you need certain qualities:

• Good physical fitness: You should be in good physical shape.
• High concentration: You should be able to focus on every ball and shot.
• Confidence: Even when surrounded by many players, having the confidence to make decisions is essential.
• Standing for long periods: You should be able to stand for long hours and not be affected by weather conditions.
• Match reports: You need to know how to make match reports, and it’s part of your job. Having knowledge of match reporting is essential.

Earnings as an Umpire

Earnings depend on where and with whom you are working. For example, an umpire can earn up to INR 40 lakhs for a single season in the Indian Premier League (IPL). In the BCCI, umpires fall into categories such as A+, A, and B, and their payments vary accordingly. A+ category umpires can earn around INR 40,000 per day for a first-class game, while B category umpires receive INR 30,000. The rest of the salary varies depending on the level of the match, umpire's experience, and other factors.