Sport

ROSEAU, Dominica (CMC):

International umpire Billy Doctrove says the inadequate amount of cricket currently being played in the region is having a negative impact on the advancement of regional umpires.

Doctrove, the only umpire from the Caribbean currently sitting on the ICC Elite panel, said the progress of umpires was being stifled as a result.

"Presently, we do not play enough cricket in the region. As a result of that, our umpires are being stifled," said Doctrove, who has stood in 29 Tests and 91 one-day internationals.

"They are not given many opportunities to officiate at the first-class level and that is having a negative impact on our cricket."

The length of the regional first-class season has been at the centre of discussion for some time now, with the West Indies Players Association contending for more matches.

Hampering development

Last season, the West Indies Cricket Board cut the season down to just six matches, after playing double the amount the previous season.

Doctrove, who stood in his debut Test 10 years ago, said this quota was hampering the development of officials.

"Our present situation is that most of our umpires stand in two matches per season. This simply is not enough," the 54-year-old said.

"We will not see the progress of our umpires if that trend continues. I believe that systems need to be put in place to fast track our umpires."