Former Australian umpire Simon Taufel has officially begun his two-year stint with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), taking on the role of umpires’ education consultant. The five-time ICC Umpire of the Year arrived in Dhaka on Friday and met BCB directors on Saturday, where he outlined his vision for improving the country’s officiating system.
“It feels great to be here,” Taufel said in Mirpur. “I respect the initiative the BCB leadership has taken. Their vision to inspire, invest, and develop the match officials system will pay dividends in the coming years. I’ve come here to contribute and to support this environment.”
The 54-year-old stressed that finding and nurturing new talent will be central to his work. “We need to identify umpires, set standards, and create an environment where they can grow. The goal is to produce officials who not only raise the standard of domestic cricket but also contribute on the international stage,” he explained.
Taufel also called for patience, noting that the process of building a professional structure would take time. “I’m humbled to be part of this journey. It takes years of commitment both on and off the field. I’d ask everyone to remain respectful and supportive. The work starts today,” he added.
He praised Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid Saikat, Bangladesh’s only elite panel umpire, who now heads the BCB’s umpires’ education department. “Saikat deserves a lot of credit for his perseverance and dedication. I don’t believe it will take another ten years to produce another elite umpire from Bangladesh, but it will require the same kind of commitment,” Taufel said.
Taufel will begin his work by observing officials during the upcoming National Cricket League (NCL) T20, which starts on sunday. “Watching 30-odd match officials in action will give me insight into how the system can be improved and taken to the next level,” he concluded.
