Alex Wharf has revealed his pride at being promoted to the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires.
The 49-year-old played 13 times for England and admitted umpiring had given him incentive to exceed what he accomplished during his playing days.
“I’m very proud,” said Wharf, who is joined by Allahudien Paleker on the Elite Panel.
“A new chapter will begin, and I’m pleased to be able to continue to develop, grow, and enjoy embracing cricket at this level.
“I’ve been fortunate to be on the Emerging Panel for the last few years. That’s allowed me to officiate at World Cups, the Champions Trophy, and other major tournaments. The ECB has had several individuals on the Elite Panel for a long time and learning from them has helped me understand the environment.
“But I was always fully focused on what I wanted to achieve and how I wanted to go about it. My goal was to be better as an umpire than I ever was as a player. I wanted to get on to the Elite Panel and be as successful as possible. That was my focus from the start.”
Wharf was first added to the ECB’s list of reserve umpires in 2011. He officiated his first ODI in June 2018 and says umpiring has been an incredible second career in the sport.
“I’ve always seen my playing career as a stepping stone to umpiring,” he said.
“In many ways, umpiring has been more fulfilling. The opportunities have been there, and I’ve gone at it wholeheartedly because I genuinely love the sport.
“As a player, you focus on your own performance and the team’s success. As an umpire, you embrace the game as a whole. My goal is simply to serve the sport to the best of my ability, and I’m grateful for the opportunities the ECB has given me.”
For now, his top priority remains on getting the best out of himself in the months and years ahead.
“I’m excited to embrace the journey, meet new people, and experience different cultures. I also want to pass on whatever knowledge I gain to others.”
He added: “I’m a totally different person now compared to when I was a player. Becoming a match official changes you. You have to adapt. I’ve changed immensely, and for the better – I hope. I’d recommend umpiring to anyone.
“If you love the game and want to give something back, it’s a fantastic way to stay involved.”