If you make a mistake as an umpire I have never believed that you 'get square' by giving a close appeal out to the same batsman a little later on. Mistakes are made by everyone, just watch any televised match.
However recently I had a partner who did not quite believe my theory, at least not for this batsman.
The game was proceeding in a great manner with things evenly poised and the 'class' act batsman starting to score a few runs. I was at square leg when he has a swing at one, he, I believe, clean missed it and it hithis pad and went through to the keeper. Big shout by everyone. The umpire stood there for a second and shook his head. General disappontment for about one second and everyone got on with it or so I thought. The over ended with a single. I wandered over to take my place when said batsman points to the edge of his bat and proudly proclaims that he smashed it. Then he pointed to my partner and out loudly 'You missed that one" and laughed.
My advice was simple 'You bat and we will umpire".
Things were a little unpleasant for a couple of overs but my umpire friend got his 'revenge'. There was a shout for LBW from deep fine leg and up went the finger. The batsman stood there in amazemenat and from square leg I advised him the direction of the dressing room.
At tea the gunned batsman charged over towards us screaming "I never hit the first one and you gunned me."
"Well," I said "there are times to gloat and there are times to shut up. If we miss one you put that under your belt and shut up. You don't stir up a whole match by arrogance."
There were a few more words but the match was completed in general harmony. If you have been given a life by an error in decision making just get on with it. Players and some umpires have very long memories.
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Topic: Don't Gloat About It (Read 2063 times)