Umpire stands in 100th game
“I was nervous because it was my first game. But the players and the other umpire made me feel comfortable,” said umpire Hassen Hussein.
Eastern Cricket Union umpire Hassen Hussein is a well-known figure in Benoni, having umpired club, age-group and regional cricket matches for the past two years.
Last month, Hussein reached the milestone of his 100th match as an umpire in a Lenasia Premier League (LPL) tie between Tasmanian Devils and Sporting Supermen at Sacred Heart College.
The 62-year-old is a latecomer to umpiring, having started at 60 in 2021, standing in a league match between Kwa-Thema and Duduza in Willowmoore Park.
After writing and acing his level one, two and three umpiring exams, he earned his stripes and joined legendary Eastern umpires like Gert van Wyk.
“I was nervous because it was my first game. But the players and the other umpire made me feel comfortable. They knew it was my first game, so they never put me under pressure,” he said.
Hussein, who has his colours in soccer, rugby and cricket, also played squash at a professional level in his formative years, said he got into umpiring because he wanted to give back after sports moulded him into the person he is today.
“I always had a love for sports. I decided I wanted to give back to the community. Umpiring was a way of keeping me in contact with people,” said Hussein.
The Mackenzie Park resident firmly believes in education, principles and values as well as respect but said the excitement of grassroots-level cricket was why he spent his weekends inside the oval, helping youngsters grasp the basics of the game.
He said that as umpires, they had the best seats in the house, which enabled them to spot and nurture talented individuals with the potential to make it as cricketers.
“Umpiring requires you to be firm, fair and friendly. You must know your laws. You must be disciplined and respectful to the players, coaches, fans and everyone involved in the game.
“It’s vital for us (umpires) to help at the grassroots level. Our decisions will help the children become great cricketers.
“I often speak to the players after matches to advise on career choices and character building. We need dedicated, educated and honourable players in our rainbow nation.”
The umpire said he was thrilled to be part of a sport still growing in SA that had opened doors for many people to earn a living.
“Cricket is a growing sport with lots of opportunities. There are opportunities for players, administrators, coaches, umpires and scorers. With so much franchise cricket, people can go far in life and earn a good living in the sport.
“It’s a pleasure to be part of Eastern Cricket, especially the umpires association. I’ve learnt a lot, and there’s a lot I can give back. I’m passionate and enjoy umpiring,” he said.
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