Didn't want to start a new thread so have piggy backed this one. I was very surprised at what I thought were underwhelming performances by Richard Kettleborough and Richard Illingworth in the recent Test series, especially as both have won the David Shepherd Trophy. I retain a lot of respect for both and it made me wonder whether, just as England perhaps is seen as one of the most difficult countries to bat in, maybe umpiring is more difficult too.
Although both of course still have some county duty I did wonder whether Michael Gough, who had two brilliant series, was more attuned to the level of movement in English conditions.
I wonder which of the emerging English umpires will eventually join the Elite Panel. I've been interested to see the development of Martin Saggers. After his first year on the county circuit an experienced player told me that he was not highly thought of on the circuit. He seems to have made great strides since and hasn't looked out of place in the International matches I've seen this summer.