'It was a really good course and a good distraction from work too! I never realised it was 5 penalty runs if the ball hits any equipment which is on the ground, including the wicket-keeper's gloves'

- Ash Tandon

Surrey Cricket Foundation have made Stage 1 of the ECB Umpiring Course available free online. They are challenging the clubs across Surrey to see who can get the most members signed up to this course.

We promoted this just 4 days ago and 16 ACC members accepted the challenge. This pitched us straight into the Top 10 (see league table above).

Whats the course like?
The course uses an engaging mix of graphics, video content and tests. As someone who has played cricket for 35 years, there were quite a few laws and scenarios that I was not aware of.

It features footage of international matches, such as when Alistair Cook jumped out of the way of a ball thrown in which hits the stumps with him out of his ground. Or another when Virat Kohli throws a ball in from fine leg to his keeper but it hits a helmet on the ground. Also, more locally, the incident at Sanderstead CC when a bail was dislodged but remained balanced on top of one stump.

My favourite part was an 'LBW simulator' where you have to make the call and then are shown using HawkEye whether they were out or not.

What our members say
This is what other ACC members said who have completed the course (and got their certificate):

Ash Tandon:
It was a really good course and a good distraction from work too! It took me 3 days to complete, spending an hour each day. There is a quick 15 questions tests towards the end which took me 5 attempts to score a century - I think took me time to adjust to the conditions! ️One law which I wasn’t aware of was that if ball touches any equipment on the ground (including gloves of a wicket keeper!) then batting team is awarded 5 penalty runs.

Vinay Malhotra:
I really enjoyed the course. It was well thought out, easy to follow and navigate the system. I learnt more about LBW and when the ball actually becomes 'dead' and much more. I didn’t know, for example, that if the wicket keeper’s cap or gloves are in front of the wicket it is a no ball. I learnt a lot, very informative!

What about you?
We would encourage all members to sign up and do the course. If you need more persuading have a read of our 6 reasons to complete the course.

And to sign up go to: Umpire Education Stage 1

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Nets at Sandilands are now available for members to book. Please note the rules around use during the Covid-19 situation. Click here for all details and how to book.