Umpiring keeps love of Cricket strong

Having started out playing for Beechboro-Lockridge and Swan Athletic while he was at school, Sookraj decided to try his hand in Premier Cricket.

After trying out at Bayswater-Morley and Midland-Guildford, Sookraj eventually found his way to University.

He proved to be a more than serviceable player for the club and third and fourth grade level.

Having spent seven seasons playing at University, while also studying at UWA, Sookraj said playing cricket became too big a commitment for him to fulfil.

“I suffered some big injuries playing and I couldn’t commit all that time to the playing part of it,” he said.

“I got a message from the club President asking me if I wanted to do the club umpire program.

“I had no idea about it and I never wanted to be an umpire.

“I decided to give it a go and I’m very happy I did it.”

As was the case with his playing career, Sookraj started his umpiring journey in fourth grade, before he gradually worked his way up to first grade.

Sookraj said his progression through the grades made him change the way he viewed umpiring.

“I didn’t expect to be a first-grade umpire,” he said.

“I thought it would be a Saturday hobby and a quick way to make some money.

“I’ve taken a far more professional attitude towards it, rather than treating it as a hobby.

“It’s made me a better umpire, but I think it’s also made me a better person.

“You bring that professional attitude to everyone you’re talking to, especially when it comes to having to explain your decisions to your colleagues because they want to learn.”

An accountant by trade, Sookraj said he hoped to get more experience and opportunity umpiring at higher levels going forward, including putting himself on the radar of Cricket Australia.

While a combination of factors no longer allow him to play the game, Sookraj said he was still fortunate enough to call the cricket pitch his happy place.

“I go through the week waiting for Saturday and Sunday,” he said.

“I would be at cricket my whole week if I could.

“Umpiring is the closest thing to playing.

“You get the whole taste of the emotions that are on the field without having to be a part of those emotions directly.

“It’s one of my favourite places to be.”

If you’re interested in following in Ryan’s footsteps, WA Cricket are hosting an Introduction and Welcome to Umpiring at the WACA Ground on Wednesday 15 July at 6.30pm.

To register your interest in attending click HERE.