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The new Eastern Cricket Union (ECU) Umpires Association deputy president, Alpheus Kgawe, described his election as a victory for those who love the laws of cricket.
Kgawe received 73% of the vote during the umpires association’s AGM on May 11. He will deputise newly elected president Hassen Hussein, who also won with 73%.
The Kwa-Thema resident will use his tenure criss-crossing the city to groom and empower youngsters interested in umpiring.
“It’s a big victory, not for me alone, but for cricket in general. I’ve been umpiring for many years. I have to play my part to ensure I bring up youngsters, especially those in the far-flung areas, because the only cricket career they know is playing. I want more youngsters to come through the ranks,” he said.
“We will use the different clubs under the ECU to reach out to youngsters that there’s a career in umpiring. It’s not only about playing cricket. You can also contribute to the sport as an umpire, scorer or groundskeeper.”
Describing the crucial role played by umpires, Kgawe explained that umpires are impartial and are responsible for upholding the laws of the game.
“Without the umpire, the game won’t take place. You are the main person. You have to ensure that the game is balanced and both teams are treated fairly. Umpires play a big role,” said Kgawe.
He was introduced to cricket by umpire and coach Temba Msipha. Rather than choosing to become a player, he was fixated on understanding how the umpires reached their decisions in matches.
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“I was more interested in the laws of the game. I always asked myself how certain decisions were made. From the time Temba introduced me to the sport, I told myself that I wanted to become an umpire. I put my effort into it.”
Inspired by Jamaican former ICC umpire Steve Bucknor, who stood in 128 test matches and 181 one-day internationals (ODIs), and Cricket SA (CSA) umpire Bongani Jele, Kgawe’s greatest umpiring moment was officiating at the Khaya Majola U19 week.
“CSA invited me to umpire at the Khaya Majola Week. I officiated in the final. That was a big achievement for me.”
To anyone interested in umpiring, Kgawe advises them to take courses, learn the laws of cricket and enjoy the game.
“The association runs courses during the cricket season. Contact us and we will take it from there,” Kgawe said.
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