New Zealand Cricket (NZC) today announced the Specsavers Elite Umpires Panel for the 2013-14 domestic cricket season.
Specsavers Elite Umpires Panel
Gary Baxter Christchurch
Billy Bowden Auckland
Barry Frost Auckland
Chris Gaffaney Dunedin
Tony Gillies Auckland
Phil Jones Auckland
Wayne Knights Auckland
Tim Parlane Christchurch
Derek Walker Oamaru
There are two changes from the 2012-13 panel, with Billy Bowden returning and newcomer Tony Gillies being promoted from the A Panel.
Bowden will join Chris Gaffaney as NZC’s nominations to the ICC Emirates International Panel, while Gary Baxter and Derek Walker will both assist in the designated third umpire role.
NZC National Umpiring Manager Rodger McHarg says: “Billy is a hugely experienced umpire and we’re thrilled to be able to use his expertise this summer.
“We also welcome Tony Gillies to the Elite Panel, who has been very impressive on the NZC A Panel in recent seasons. I’m confident he will continue to develop and progress.
“I’d like to acknowledge the great service of Evan Watkin, who has been umpiring at First Class level for 24 seasons. Evan has stood in over 130 First Class and over 170 List A matches and despite not being part of the Elite Panel this year, will continue to umpire.”
The 2013-14 NZC Reserve Umpire Panel (previously the A Panel) will be announced in due course.
