Umpire Stephen Harris is set to take the next step in his career after being named as the second South African recipient in the Betaway SA20 and Cricket South Africa Umpire Exchange Programme with ECB’s The Hundred League.
SA20 has committed to raising all levels of the game in South Africa in line with CSA’s long-standing Umpire exchange programmes with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Cricket Australia (CA), and New Zealand Cricket (NZC).
The league has already afforded Lubablo ‘Babs Gcuma the opportunity of standing in four matches in The Hundred last year with the transposal enabling English Russell Warren to officiate in SA20 season 02.
While speaking about his opportunities to officiate in The Hundred, Stephen Harris said, “I am looking forward to the opportunity. I have never umpired in England before. I am looking to take the knowledge gained from my colleagues that I am going to stand with and bring it back and spread it to our guys in South Africa,” he said.
“The things that work and really hope to gain experience. Stand with some good guys and that’s where we share knowledge together as cricket umpires.
“I am very excited. It’s a big competition. You see the crowds are huge. There are a few different things in the playing conditions to remember. I am really looking forward to it. It looks like a really good fun vibe, party, crowds, and great atmosphere. I am really looking forward to it.”
SA20 has been hailed for creating opportunities for South African players and coaches. Stephen believes that the Umpires and Officials from the premier Domestic T20 competitions has been benefitted.
“I think for umpires in South Africa, it has given us the platform to umpire on the big stage,” he said. “For all of us, it has helped us up our game as South African umpires. It’s an international competition. It’s amazing.”
The league’s commitment also promoted the first female umpire, Lauren Agenbag and match referee Shandre Fritz, to the season 02 match officials list.
“At SA20, we are committed to enhancing every aspect of the game, and the match officials’ space is no different. The Umpire Exchange Programme with the ECB is mutually beneficial and a great growth opportunity for the recipient match officials,” said SA20 Head of Cricket Operations, Stephen Cook.
“As a League, we have been very impressed with Stephen’s performance and progression and believe that this opportunity will further his development. A heartfelt thanks to the ECB for their efforts and hospitality in hosting Stephen.”
