A former executive member of the Dominica Cricket Umpires Association (DCUA) has debunked allegations that the DCUA is partly responsible for the poor state of cricket on the island.
Recently, the Public Relations Officer of the Dominica Cricket Association (DCA), Augustine Pascal, in an interview on state-owned DBS Radio, indicated that scheduled matches had to be postponed due to the unavailability of umpires. Pascal further stated that many games had to be played with only one recognized umpire pre-COVID-19, thereby delaying the progress of his association
However, former vice president and secretary of the Dominica Cricket Umpires Association, Alganan Degallerie, has described as “unfortunate and misleading” the comments made by Pascal. While admitting that the DCUA has had its fair share of challenges, he stated that the umpires’ body cannot accept blame for matches not being played.
“It is very unfair and sad for the PRO of the Dominica Cricket Association to hold the Dominica Cricket Umpires Association responsible for cricket matches not being played due to the unavailability of umpires. It is very alarming that the DCA would want to schedule cricket matches before having a meeting or discussion with all stakeholders on the protocols to be followed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This ill-advised move by the DCA to schedule matches recently is a clear indication of the maladministration and lack of organizational capacity that has plagued Dominica’s cricket over the last two years. This current administration, rather than trying to point fingers everywhere because of their incompetence should seek to forge alliances rather than breed division and not use the members of the Dominica Cricket Umpires Association as scapegoats.
“It must be noted that the recruitment and training of individuals to become umpires are the responsibilities of the Dominica Cricket Association and not that of the Dominica Cricket Umpires Association,” Degallerie explained.
Degallerie, who has been a member of Cricket West Indies Panel B umpires since 2011 indicated that his association is committed to assisting in the development of cricket on the island.
“The DCUA has served very well over many years despite poor conditions and abuse from administrators, players, and fans. The DCUA is committed to officiating at cricket matches and will work closely with all stakeholders to ensure that Dominica’s cricket is revived,” he stated.