Doctrove is ICC 'Elite'

Fri, Apr 7, '06

West Indian umpire Billy 'Toshack' Doctrove is now a member of the ICC's so-called "Elite" panel of umpires for 2006 and 2007.

Doctrove, 50, who hails from Marigot, Dominica, joins Steve Bucknor as the second West Indian on the panel, which has been expanded from seven to 10 members following the annual review of umpire performance at the end of March 2006.

All of the existing Elite Panel members have been retained. Joining Doctrove as newcomers to the panel are Mark Benson and Asad Rauf.

Doctrove has already officiated in seven Test matches and 45 one-day internationals.

"I feel very proud because it means that I have made good progress in my umpiring levels and I know that my country, Dominica, though a very small one of only 70,000 people will be extremely proud of my achievement as they have always supported and encouraged me throughout my career," Doctrove said, upon learning of the appointment.

ICC general manager Mark Richardson described Doctrove as a "consistent performer" and said the addion to the Elite Panel is "a reward for this consistency."

* CLICK HERE to read an interview with Doctrove by CaribbeanCricket.com editor Ryan Patrick

"From the intense atmosphere of ODI matches at packed Caribbean venues to the quieter surroundings of the ICC Trophy in Ireland last year, Billy has proved adept at reading the game and making accurate decisions," Richardson said.

He added: "His decision-making is good and his calm approach has stood him in good stead in pressure situations. We look forward to working more closely with him to continue to develop his skills."

Emirates Elite Panel of ICC Umpires 2006-07:

Mark Benson
Billy Bowden
Steve Bucknor
Aleem Dar
Billy Doctrove
Darrell Hair
Daryl Harper
Rudi Koertzen
Asad Rauf
Simon Taufel