Before the toss for innings two Umpires shall be appointed, one
for each end, to control the game with absolute impartiality as
required by the Laws.
2. Change of Umpire
No Umpire shall be changed during a match without the consent of
both Captains.
3. Special Conditions
Before the toss for innings, the Umpires shall agree with both
Captains on any special conditions affecting the conduct of the
match.
4. The Wickets
The Umpires shall satisfy themselves before the start of the
match that the wickets are properly pitched.
5. Clock or Watch
The Umpires shall agree between themselves and inform both Captains
before the start of the match on the watch or clock to be followed
during the match.
6. Conduct and Implements
Before and during a match the Umpires shall ensure that the conduct of
the game and the implements used are strictly in accordance with the
Laws.
7. Fair and Unfair Play
The Umpires shall be the sole judges of fair and unfair play.
The Umpires shall be responsible for satisfying themselves on the
correctness of the scores throughout and at the conclusion of the
match. See Law 21.6. (Correctness of Result).
Notes
(a) Attendance of Umpires
The Umpires should be present on the ground and report to the
Ground Executive or the equivalent at least 30 minutes before the
start of a day's play.
(b) Consultation Between Umpires and Scorers
Consultation between Umpires and Scorers over doubtful points is
essential.
(c) Fitness of Ground
The Umpires shall consider the ground as unfit for play when it
is so wet or slippery as to deprive the Bowlers of a reasonable
foothold, the Fieldsmen, other than the deep-fielders, of the
power of free movement, or the Batsmen the ability to play their
strokes or to run between the wickets. Play should not be
suspended merely because the grass and the ball are wet and slippery.
(d) Fitness of Weather and Light
The word (only) was deleted at the MCC General Meeting in May 1998
The Umpires should (only) suspend play when they consider that the
conditions are so bad that it is unreasonable or dangerous to
continue.
