The Oxfordshire Association of Cricket Officials (Oxon ACO) is running an Umpire Development Course for those looking to develop their umpiring skills, alongside a series of New Laws of Cricket Seminars to help everyone understand the latest changes to the Laws.
UMPIRE DEVELOPMENT COURSE - MARCH 2027
This two-day course is aimed at new and aspiring umpires who have completed the ECB Introduction to Umpiring course, or who have some umpiring or cricketing experience and wish to improve, update or refresh their knowledge and skills.
It is also open to scorers who would like to develop their understanding of the umpire's role. The course aims to bridge the gap between the ECB Umpire Course and league cricket umpiring.
Topics include:
- Pre-game and in-game preparation and management
- Playing regulations, including the Cherwell League and HCWCL
- Ground, weather and light
- Scoring runs, dismissals and LBW
- Dead ball and unfair play
- Dangerous and unfair bowling
- ECB regulations for young players and concussion guidelines
- Managing player conduct under Law 42
- The Association of Cricket Officials at national and local level
Course details:
- Dates: Sunday 14th and 21st March 2027
- Time: 9:30am–4:00pm on both days
- Venue: Tiddington Village Hall, Albury View, Tiddington, Oxfordshire, OX9 2NA
- Cost: £30
Some pre-course work and homework between the two days will be required. Tea and coffee will be provided, but participants should bring their own lunch.
To book: Click here or contact Ian Royle, Oxon ACO Education Officer, at oxonaco@outlook.com or on 07850 072262.
NEW LAWS OF CRICKET SEMINARS - OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2026
The MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 Code, 4th Edition 2026, came into effect on 1 October 2026. These evening seminars will explain the changes that players, umpires and clubs are most likely to encounter during the 2027 season, with an opportunity to ask questions and discuss the changes with fellow cricket enthusiasts.
Two sessions are currently scheduled:
Didcot Cricket Club
- Date: Tuesday 20 October 2026
- Time: 7:30pm
- Venue: Boundary Park, Didcot, OX11 6EY
Thame Town Cricket Club
- Date: Tuesday 24 November 2026
- Time: 7:30pm
- Venue: Church Road, Thame, OX9 3AJ
There is no need to book in advance, although Oxon ACO would appreciate an email to ocagensec@gmail.com if you know you will be attending.
Further sessions are expected to be arranged around the county in the months leading up to the 2027 season.
Both opportunities are a great way to support the development of officials within our game, improve understanding of the Laws and help ensure our competitions are well supported by knowledgeable and confident umpires.