Umpire Taylor promoted to ICC panel

After 20 years of perseverance, Jamaican cricket umpire Christopher Taylor has been appointed to the International Cricket Council (ICC)/Cricket West Indies (CWI) International Panel of Umpires, effective April 1, 2026.

The 45-year-old Taylor secured his promotion by becoming the most recent CWI official to complete the ICC umpire accreditation process.

His path was bolstered earlier this year by outstanding performances in Pakistan’s President’s Trophy Grade 1 competition through the ICC Umpire Exchange Programme.

“This is a moment I’ve worked towards since 2006,” Taylor said. “I’m humbled and honoured. I sat my initial local exam alongside Jacqueline Williams, who is now an established international women’s umpire. I was still in the corporate world then, introduced to the role by former first-class umpire Maurice Chung. It has grown into something I truly love.”

Taylor has served on the regional second-tier panel since 2011, a journey he describes as long and arduous but ultimately formative.

“Those tough times prepare you for what’s to come,” he said. “I’m excited to experience new things and put all that work into practice.”

The newly appointed umpire also used his platform to encourage aspiring officials across the region, noting that officiating offers a viable full-time career path.

“Umpiring might not seem glorious because most people experience sport as players, not officials. But officiating builds character,” Taylor said. “I’d love to see younger people getting into it, not only in their 30s and 40s, but thinking of it as an option at 18 or 20, straight out of university.”

CWI CEO Chris Dehring praised the appointment as a proud moment for West Indies cricket.

“Chris’ appointment reflects his personal commitment and professionalism, as well as the strength of our officiating pathway. His international exposure and consistent performances have prepared him well, and we are confident he will represent West Indies cricket with distinction.”

Taylor is set to make his debut as an international umpire during the upcoming West Indies home season.