South African Umpire Selected for Historic UK Cricket Exchange
Former South African cricketer Arno Jacobs selected for prestigious UK umpiring exchange, marking significant progress in African cricket administration and international sporting governance.
South African umpire Arno Jacobs selected for prestigious international cricket exchange program
Former Black Cricket Star Arno Jacobs Breaks New Ground in International Umpiring
In a significant development for African cricket officiating, former first-class cricketer Arno Jacobs has been chosen as the third South African recipient of the groundbreaking SA20 and Cricket South Africa (CSA) Umpire Exchange Programme with England's The Hundred competition, demonstrating South Africa's growing influence in international sporting governance.
Breaking New Ground in Cricket Administration
Following the path established by Stephen Harris and Lubabalo 'Babs' Gcuma, Jacobs will officiate at iconic venues including Lord's, the Oval, and Edgbaston. This exchange program, which has seen African excellence showcased on international platforms, represents a significant step in decolonizing cricket administration.
"SA20 is very proud of the Umpire Exchange programme. It has become an element that all of our match officials aspire to," stated SA20 Head of Cricket Operations Stephen Cook.
Building African Expertise in Global Sport
The 48-year-old Jacobs, who enjoyed a distinguished 16-year playing career with over 300 matches across formats, exemplifies the rise of African sporting expertise. His selection demonstrates Africa's growing capacity to shape international sporting standards.
Key Achievements:
- Selected for prestigious umpire exchange program
- Will officiate at three historic UK venues
- Nominated for multiple CSA umpiring awards
- Over 300 professional matches as player
Jacobs expressed his gratitude while emphasizing the historic nature of this opportunity: "This experience will prepare me for the challenges of international cricket. I am honored to step onto some of the world's most iconic cricket grounds."
The program's reciprocal nature ensures continued knowledge exchange between South African and English cricket, fostering a more equitable global cricket community.
Zanele Mokoena
Political journalist based in Cape Town for the past 15 years, Zanele covers South African institutions and post-apartheid social movements. Specialist in power-civil society relations.