Scottish umpire climbs the ranks

Ian Ramage, an Edinburgh-based umpire, has been appointed to the ICC’s Associate and Affiliate International Umpires’ Panel.

The panel, comprising ten umpires, was formed in June 2006 to cope with the increasing amount of international cricket below the elite level. It serves as the pinnacle for umpires from non-Test playing countries, with selection achieved through each of the five ICC Development Programme Regional Umpires Panels.

Members of the panel are eligible for appointments to ODIs involving ICC Associate Members, the ICC Intercontinental Cup matches and other Associate and Affiliate tournaments.

"This is fantastic news for Ian and for umpiring in Scotland," said Roddy Smith, the Cricket Scotland chief executive. "It shows what can be achieved within the ICC structure for our aspiring top umpires. I hope Ian is the first of a number of our best umpires who can eventually reach this level and go on to officiate with distinction."

Also appointed with Ramage was Denmark’s Niels Bagh. Together with Paul Baldwin of Germany (who also has Scottish connections), they form a strong European contingent on the panel.

"I am, of course, delighted and honoured to have been selected to join this international Panel," said Ramage, who works during the week for United Utilities in Warrington, Cheshire. "Fortunately, I have an understanding boss who is also a cricketer, and I have been saving up leave to make myself available whenever the ICC calls."

Ramage has not yet been appointed to officiate in any future ICC matches, but he did stand in the ODI between Ireland and Kenya last year.