The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is bringing in former ICC Elite Panel umpire Simon Taufel on a three-year contract to enhance the standard of umpiring in domestic cricket. The decision was approved at the recent BCB board meeting. Simon Taufel, a five-time ICC Umpire of the Year, is set to lead a structured development program.
Umpires Committee Chairman Iftekhar Rahman Mithu confirmed the initiative, saying,
“We’ve been in talks with Simon for the last 4–5 months. He works globally on umpire development and is still involved with the ICC. The board has now approved the engagement.”
Simon Taufel will guide a three-phase plan focused on grooming 10–15 umpire trainers, who will later work across the country. Although the contract is yet to be signed, BCB officials said Simon Taufel will periodically visit Bangladesh to oversee the program’s implementation.
Simon, who officiated his first ODI in 1999 and Test in 2000, was part of the ICC Elite Panel from 2003 to 2012. He officiated 74 Tests, 174 ODIs, and 34 T20Is, including high-profile matches like the Ashes. His unmatched consistency earned him the ICC Umpire of the Year award for five consecutive years (2004–2008).
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FAQ
1. What is Simon Taufel’s role with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB)?
Simon Taufel will work as a consultant to develop local umpires in Bangladesh. His primary responsibility is to implement a structured, phased training program over three years to improve umpiring standards nationwide.
2. How long is Simon Taufel’s contract with the BCB?
Taufel has agreed to a 3-year contract with the BCB. During this period, he will help create a pool of qualified umpire trainers and provide direct guidance, including in-person visits and training workshops.
3. What are Simon Taufel’s credentials as an umpire?
Taufel is a former ICC Elite Panel umpire who officiated in 74 Tests, 174 ODIs, and 34 T20Is. He was named ICC Umpire of the Year five times in a row (2004–2008) and is globally respected for his umpiring excellence and mentorship.