Image courtesy of: The Guardian
“This wonderful opportunity as NZC umpire coach enables me to continue to be part of this marvellous match-official community and work with the aspiring umpires throughout New Zealand”
Tony Hill has announced that he will be stepping down from the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) elite panel of umpires to take up the position of New Zealand Cricket’s (NZC) umpire coach in March.
Hill has been an international umpire for 15 years and officiated in 40 Test matches, 96 ODIs and 17 Twenty20 Internationals.
“It has been so special officiating internationally among great players alongside the finest umpires in the world,” Hill said. “What a privilege! I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the ICC and feel privileged to have been part of the system at a time when umpiring transformed to what it is today.
“I would like to offer my special thanks and appreciation to my family, colleagues in the playing control team and all those who I have worked with for supporting me throughout my time with the ICC.
“This wonderful opportunity as NZC umpire coach enables me to continue to be part of this marvellous match-official community and work with the aspiring umpires throughout New Zealand. What a challenge and one I look forward to.”
ICC umpires and referees manager Vince van der Bijl paid tribute to Hill, saying: “Tony has given sterling service to the game over many years and his humour, commitment and selfless approach will be sorely missed. He loves cricket and officiating, so we are delighted that in his new role he will continue to serve the game and help New Zealand continue to produce top-level umpires into the future.
“Many thanks Tony for playing such an important role in the period of transformation within the match-official community and for your contribution to each of us.”
NZC national umpiring manager Rodger McHarg welcomed Hill aboard and added that his experience would be extremely useful in training local umpires in New Zealand.
“Tony’s been a highly respected umpire for a number of years and we’re incredibly pleased to secure the services of someone with his knowledge and expertise,” McHarg said. “The demand for quality umpires in our game is ever increasing and we’re dedicated to providing top-level officiating at all levels of the game. We believe Tony will be instrumental in helping us to continue to raise that bar.
“He’s been a great example of what can be achieved on the international stage and with his involvement we’re confident that we can continue to produce world-class umpires.”