The Thames Valley Cricket League (TVCL) is the major league cricket competition for cricket clubs in Berkshire and surrounding counties. Over the past few years, the TVCL has merged with other local leagues to create a structure that ensures that cricket in the Thames Valley will continue to grow. The TVCL is a feeder league for Premier League Cricket and hence is a platform for cricket umpires to develop, including along the ECB pathway. The TVCL provides competitive cricket, whilst upholding the ‘Spirit of Cricket’.
Due to a change in the structure of the League for the 2026 season, we are looking to increase the size of our umpiring Panel. The Panel provides’ independent neutral’ umpires for the senior divisions of the League, and we aim to cover as many games as possible.
A lot of umpires may have officiated at a Club level, but umpiring as a neutral is a different experience. As a Panel umpire, the experience may be different, yet in my opinion, a more enjoyable experience. That enjoyment comes from a combination of the following factors:
- You work as a team with a colleague who is impartial and competent
- You will develop techniques that improve your performance
- You have access to a ‘mentor’ who can aid your development with guidance, answer questions, and support you
- You get access to relevant training, some of which is targeted specifically at the Panel
- The Counties, League and ECB will provide a pathway for your progression, if you wish to umpire at a better standard (and eventually, maybe even professionally)
- You will be paid a fee (set by the League) to cover your expenses
All of the above should help to make your overall umpiring experience more satisfying.
If you are interested or just want to know more, please contact me:
John Muir TVL Umpires Committee
07834 271705
Some FAQs that may help you
Do I have to be available every week?
No. It is recognised that umpires will sometimes have other commitments, though ideally you should plan to umpire regularly. The more matches you umpire, the greater your experience.
Can I restrict the area for which I need to travel?
The appointments officer will take distance into account when appointments are made for you. At lower levels, the divisions are arranged around geographical areas. As you progress to higher levels, the team locations are likely to involve a bit more travelling.
Do I have to be an experienced umpire?
You will need to have some experience, for example, having umpired a number of games for your Club. At the start, you can expect to be paired with more experienced panel umpires; as you gain experience, you will likely become one of those helping others!