Hundreds of dedicated volunteer umpires around the country often lack recognition, so Specsavers and New Zealand Cricket are encouraging New Zealanders to nominate their favourite local cricket umpire — to give them the runs they deserve.
Specsavers and NZC are continuing to recognise, support and reward the unsung heroes of cricket throughout the country with the annual nationwide search for Specsavers’ Favourite Local Cricket Umpire, bowling into the fifth year of the popular competition.
NZC’s Head of Cricket Lindsay Crocker says, “Umpires represent the ‘third team’ during a cricket match, and perform a vital role on and off the field. They uphold the laws and spirit of cricket, applying playing conditions and managing the score.
“Umpires are an essential part of our sport, and the search for Specsavers’ Favourite Local Cricket Umpire is a great way for us all to put these volunteers in the spotlight and acknowledge their time, effort and commitment to their local community.”
New Zealand’s favourite local cricket umpire will win a ‘money can’t buy’ experience that includes a trip for two to watch a BLACKCAPS ANZ One-Day International this summer, a one-on-one training session with a top umpire, and a voucher for two pairs of designer frames from Specsavers.
Last season's winner Stuart Hope with international umpire Simon Taufel
Specsavers has been a proud supporter of domestic cricket umpires for the past five years, ensuring these sporting officials feel confident that their vision and eye health is in the best shape possible.
Specsavers New Zealand Director, Graeme Edmond, sees the start of the busy summer cricket season as the perfect time for Kiwis to think about their eye health. A recent survey carried out by Specsavers reveals only half of people wear sunglasses with polarised lenses: that’s thousands of Kiwis not effectively protecting their eyes from harsh sunlight reflections.
“It’s worrying to learn that so many Kiwis aren’t investing in polarised sunglasses. Keeping your eyes protected and maintaining optimal vision should be a priority for all this summer. This goes for umpires, outdoor sports players and everyone else enjoying the summer sun,” says Edmond.
Polarised lenses are important as they eliminate 99.9 per cent horizontal glare and filter 100 per cent of UV light.
NZC understands the importance of keeping Kiwis eyes in check during the summer months, and encourages everyone on the field to wear polarised sunglasses. “Without good eyesight, even the best umpire can miss important aspects of a match,” Crocker said.
Six finalist umpires will be selected from around the country. Each will receive a $500 cash prize, tickets to a cricket game in their local area, and a voucher for two pairs of designer glasses from Specsavers, including prescription sunglasses. From the line-up of finalists, one lucky national winner will be chosen.
Kiwis are encouraged to nominate their favourite local umpire by visiting www.specsavers.co.nz/favouriteumpire/. Entries close 15 January 2016.
