READ MORE - Last week's BDCA wrap

THE head of the Bendigo District Cricket Umpires Association has urged "patience and understanding" from clubs as the association struggles with dwindling numbers.

BDCUA president Larry Wust has written to all Bendigo District Cricket Association clubs outlining the battles the association is facing to fill its full quota of appointments.

The BDCUA currently has just 28 regular umpires on its list, which is one less than the 29 required to ensure there are two umpires for all first and second XI matches and one for third XI and under-18 games.

As well as the 28 regular umpires, the BDCUA has three who help out when required, but there are just 21 available for the upcoming round five that hits off this Saturday.

That has left the BDCUA in the position of eight umpires having to double up to fill all positions.

"Over the past 12 months we've lost nine senior A Grade umpires, four of whom (Steve Patten, Chris Gill, Paul Abbott and Max Taylor) have umpired in grand finals," Wust said on Thursday.

"Replacing those calibre of umpires is nigh on impossible.

"We're a bit of an ageing group in terms of the umpires we have and we're really trying to get the younger guys coming through.

"It's such a fast game these days that you've really got to be on your toes and perhaps that is making a few of the older guys think they aren't up to the standard of Bendigo umping any more.

"There's a number of factors and it's all culminated in this perfect storm you could say where we're really struggling for numbers."

In his letter to club presidents, Wust has urged clubs to "show patience and understanding through this difficult period."

"The BDCUA will always endeavour to ensure all BDCA matches have at least one officiating umpire. Although not ideal, this round there will be two first XI games with three officiating umpires over the two weekends, thus having two umpires of an acceptable standard for all first XI matches.

"The last thing the BDCUA want to see is a situation where there will be no umpires appointed to a game, in particular the senior ranks."

Anyone interested in joining the BDCUA can contact co-ordinator Peter Williams on 0421 641 445.

Meanwhile, Eaglehawk leads the way in the BDCUA's Barry Ayres Spirit of Cricket Award after four rounds.

* Barry Ayres Spirit of Cricket standings:

Eaglehawk - 25.50

Strathdale - 25.09

Kangaroo Flat - 24.55

White Hills - 24.50

Bendigo - 24.38

Golden Square - 24.00

Sandhurst - 23.75

Bendigo United - 23.67

Huntly-North - 23.33

Strathfieldsaye - 23.18

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