The amalgamation of local cricket scorers and umpires under one umbrella and the recruitment of more umpires are two of the primary objectives outlined on the agenda of newly-elected Bermuda Cricket Umpires Association (BCUA) president Wali Manders.

Manders, who previously served on Bermuda Cricket Board, succeeded outgoing president George Francis during the BCUA’s AGM held on Tuesday night.

And with Bermuda cricket now at a crossroads, Manders has urged his administrators to play their part in helping to raise overall standards in the local game.

Manders said: “One of the things we would like to do is to try and get scorers to amalgamate with the BCUA and also work hand in hand with the Board to develop a better partnership with them.

“We also would like to recruit more umpires because some of us are getting old. We hope we can tap into any resources out there in the community — whether they be school teachers or past umpires — and also encourage clubs to provide representatives to umpire because I think in order for our cricket to progress the entire product must be improved.”

It is understood that former cricketers Albert Steede, Shiraz Ali, Dennis Wainwright and Andre Manders have already expressed interests in joining ranks with the BCUA, and Manders hopes to see even more new faces come onboard.

He also wants better relations to be formed between his association and Cup Match clubs St.George’s and Somerset — who have been at odds in recent years over recommendations made by the BCUA’s previous administration.

“We definitely want to work with them to help resolve any indifferences that have evolved in the past,” Manders said.

Also voted into office during last Tuesday’s AGM were Stephen Douglas as vice-president, Richard Austin as secretary, Hector Watson as assistant secretary and Kent Gibbons as the BCUA’s treasurer.

Top umpire Roger Dill, Francis, Anthony Fubler and Richard Burrows will all now serve on the association’s management committee.

Former BCUA president Francis and secretary Randy Butler did not seek re-election for their respective posts.

“I basically support Mr. Manders’ vision going forward, and I’m also prepared to work along with him and do my best,” BCUA vice- president Douglas said.

The well known cricket umpire also applauded contributions made by former executives Butler and Francis to the association over the years.

“I think it’s important that we acknowledge their contributions, but it’s now up to us to move forward,” Douglas said.

New head umpire