BLACK & WHITE Edition 78 – November 2020

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CONTENTS

❖ Chairman’s Welcome 3 ❖ Executive Officer Update 4 ❖ State Umpiring Manager Update 8 ❖ Well Played 21 ❖ Education Officer Update 22 ❖ 2020 Principal Membership Recipients Respond 24 ❖ Around the Zones 29 ❖ India Tour & WBBL Finals Scorers Confirmed 30 ❖ Country Championships Return 32 ❖ Getting to Know Your Bush Umpires 33 ❖ Technical 36 ❖ Female Engagement 38 ❖ Cric-o-ku 39 ❖ Association Partners 40 ❖ 60 seconds with… 41 ❖ New Members 46 ❖ NSWCUSA Committees and Representative Panels 47

Keiran Knight and Tim Gumbleton embracing the COVID Supplement Playing Conditions at Manly Oval

Cover Photos: Top: Peter McNamara watches Daniel Fallins take a catch at Glenn McGrath Oval Bottom: Dan Moran answers an appeal from Steve O’Keefe at Manly Oval 2 | P a g e

Chairman’s Welcome

Mark Hughes Dear Members, everyone to take advantage of these resources if you haven’t already done so. The off-season has been a long and arduous one. I’m sure many of you are Playing conditions have been significantly enjoying being back on the field of play, I altered to ensure all participants are safe know for some, the delay to the start of and ensuring can continue to be the season was a source of frustration. played. Please be diligent in your preparation and ensure playing conditions The NSWCUSA staff and management are adhered to. It is no different to team have performed with distinction enforcing these playing condition changes over the course of the off-season, for the safety of participants, similar to producing our Annual Report for ensuring a batsman is protected from members, celebrating our end of season dangerous or short pitched or awards via email, facilitating our Annual maintaining the danger area is protected General Meeting and first three Ordinary to ensure the integrity of the pitch is General Meetings online and running maintained. numerous education sessions on the laws of cricket for new members as well as Best wishes to all for season 2020/21. producing our first ever online convention.

Many of these activities were experienced for the first time by a large number of our members who through the tyranny of distance have not been able to participate in a number of our activities.

To Troy, Ben, Claire and Bede, a special thank you to you all for the way in which you have been able to keep our members engaged in what has been a difficult off season for many.

Can I encourage all members to prepare well for the season of cricket that lies ahead. The majority of the convention sessions remain available for download on our webpage and I would recommend Bruce Baxter and Rob Pye ahead of a Breakers pre-season match in Coffs Harbour

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Executive Officer Update

Troy Penman Dear Members and Affiliates The Association’s 107th Annual General Meeting was held on Wednesday 2 How good is it to have cricket being played! September. For the first time in the Whilst the off-season provided great Association’s history the meeting was challenges as an Association we have conducted via electronic means. It was continued to prosper. We’ve been able to pleasing to see over 170 members dial in continue our recruitment, training and and join the meeting. development of both members and prospective members. Association Special guests who dialled in were: meetings have continued to be conducted • NSW Cricket Board Deputy Chairman, via electronic means. Sponsorship of the Kevin Greene. Association has been secured again and we • Cricket NSW Chief Executive, Lee Germon. have so much to look forward to as we • Cricket Association Committee of progress through the season. Management Member and Chairman, Graham Gorrie and Committee of Members continue to represent the Management member Brian Freedman. Association with distinction at all levels. It • NSW Premier Cricket Manager, Roy has been wonderful to see Formica and Manager NSW Pathway back in officiating in the Sheffield Shield and we look forward to seeing Rod Competitions, Bruce Whitehouse. along with Gerard Abood and Paul Wilson The support of Cricket NSW throughout involved on field in international fixtures COVID-19 and the leadership shown by Lee this season. We have 21 members currently Germon and Board Chair John Knox has involved with the WBBL. An incredible been outstanding, strong and decisive. As number and it highlights the strength of an Association we’re very lucky to have the Association. The BBL will commence on both men and Cricket NSW as supports. December 10 and no doubt the Association will again be heavily represented. Upgrades to Principal Membership were bestowed on nine full members, each have The Country Representative Program is made an incredible contribution to extensive, and we wish all members well NSWCUSA and their local Association. for the upcoming season. We know that members will travel far and wide to Peter Done (Greater Illawarra), Ivan officiate these matches and know they will Holland (Sydney Shires Cricket Umpires’ represent the Association with aplomb. Association), Pat Kerin OAM (Riverina), Matches in the Plan B Regional T20 Bash Graham Moon (Riverina), Drew Morrow and the Women’s Regional Bash (SCA/GPS), Dan O’Connor (Central commenced over the weekend of 24 – 25 Northern), John Oliver (Greater Illawarra), October with matches in the NSW Country Rod Tucker, and Lindsay Wood OAM Championships to commence on Friday 20 (Central Northern). November.

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Applications to be upgraded to Full In the August edition of In Black & White Member were received from 30 members. we advised that NSWCUSA Management The applications were reviewed by were still working from home and this management and the Board remains the case. Whilst specific Cricket recommended the following members be NSW staff have returned to the office to upgraded to Full Member. The applications assist with the training of players the were approved by members on the call. majority of staff continue to work remotely, and members will be advised if Bill Bannon, Christopher Beecher, Geoffrey this changes. Beer, Sarah Berman, Timothy Creamer, Steven Craggs, Dominic Credentino, Jeff The training team ( and Ben Egan, Ian Fletcher, Santosh Gangula, Treloar) continue to deliver world class Saurabh Ganguly, Nathan Harvey, Kim training and education. Both have Hunter, Craig Kelly, Bhola Kumar, Ayanavo developed our training courses and Lahiri, Zulfikar Malik, Andrew Milligan, Lal adapted them into online sessions that are Natarajan, Lalit Rishi, Michael Schokman, easy to consume, highly interactive and Saif Siddiqui, Sachin Solanki, Vivek Solanki, provide the same level of education that Ian Strudwick, Scott Thomas, Steven comes from face to face . In the Tiberti, Daksh Trivedi, Mohit Uppal, past three months we have welcomed 148 Andrew Yarad. new members, and this is a direct result of the excellent training and education that is The Board resolved to continue with the being provided. appointment of Co-Patrons. The Association Patrons for season 2020-21 are; We received 238 expressions of interest • Brian Booth MBE from members to officiate in NSW Premier • Alan Davidson AM MBE Cricket for season 2020-21. Availability • Dick French OAM ranging from members being available for • Graham Reed one round through to members who are We thank Graham Reed for speaking on available for all 15 rounds (23 days of behalf of the Patrons during the AGM. cricket). On average, umpires are available for 19 days of cricket. The Board and We’re blessed as an Association to have Management Team are pleased to see the these four individuals as figureheads and high level of interest in umpiring NSW we thank them for their positive Premier Cricket, but with this interest contribution to the Association. comes the challenge of balancing umpire appointments and managing umpires’ The Board of Directors for season 2020-21 expectations. A selection strategy will comprise: document for NSW Premier Cricket has • Elected Directors – Graham been circulated to all Sydney Cricket Chudleigh, Andrew Coates, Geoff Association umpires to provide clarity Garland, Mark Hughes and Claire around the process of appointments, the Polosak. order of appointments and who appoints • Honorary Treasurer – Laurie Borg. to what competitions. • Liaison Officer – Neil Findlay. • Executive Officer – Troy Penman. The NSW Premier Cricket Observer team of • Appointed Directors – Darren Laurie Borg, Graham Chudleigh, Errol Goodger and Ben Treloar. Cranney, Bob Davis, Berend du Plessis,

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Rupert Mathews have commenced their take place in a face to face capacity and an season and already the team has appropriate venue is being sourced. completed 90 observations. The feedback Correspondence will be provided to all provided to umpires will help set them up members about the meeting the week for the remainder of the season. We thank starting Monday 16 November. the team for their efforts and wish them well for the remainder of the season. I’d like to thank fellow Representative Scorers’ Selection committee members We thank the Cricket NSW Competitions Merilyn Fowler, Darren Goodger, Narelle staff Stephen Blomfield, Roy Formica, Jess Johnston for their work during what has McMahon, Sean Mantle and Bruce been a busy period. The WBBL tournament Whitehouse, for their respective efforts in will see 59 matches being played in Sydney administering a number of competitions and therefore 118 scorer appointments that we officiate in. We know that the have been required. On top of the WBBL competitions will run smoothly with your there are seven matches during the Indian commitment to ensuring a successful tour that have required NSWCUSA competition. members to be appointed.

The Association’s website continues to It’s pleasing to see over 85% of members provide a wealth of knowledge to and 75% of Affiliated Associations have members and the general public. Links to renewed their membership with the presentations, changing the structure of Association for season 2020-21. A reminder the site and refreshing the homepage. The that the due date for renewals has now homepage has moved away from a text- passed and to ensure that you remain up to heavy page to a more aesthetic and user- date with what is happening with the friendly experience. All key content has Association please renew at your earliest been retained with additional information convenience. One you have renewed you added to the website for the public and will receive your membership card along members. We’re looking at implementing a with a microfibre cloth with can be used to new initiative in the new year where laws clean your glasses. of cricket questions are accessible via the website for the development and I’d like to thank Bede Sajowitz for his education of all members. excellent administration work on a number of fronts. Working remotely has provided Due to COVID-19 and Government significant challenges when needing to restrictions the September, October and provide physical items to members that November Ordinary General Meetings cannot be sent via email. Bede has have been conducted via electronic means continued to find ways to ensure members (Zoom). I’d like to that Ben Treloar and the are not missing out on services and being Examination Committee for their kept up to date with the Association. presentations during the meetings. The presentations have been highly education An email was circulated to all members on and of great benefit to the membership. I’d Wednesday 14 October advertising the like to also thank Darren Goodger for creation of the NSWCUSA Business providing a State Umpiring Manager report Directory. This year has been difficult for for each meeting. It is hoped that the many and as an Association we are looking December Ordinary General Meeting can

6 | P a g e for ways to support each other throughout provide constant awareness of the season 2020-21, and beyond. products and services offered by NSWCUSA members. I thank all members Following discussion at a Board Meeting, who submitted details of their business Directors were supportive of into the Directory and for taking the time establishing an NSWCUSA Business to be a part of this initiative. Directory as a way of assisting members. The creation of an I’d like to finish by thanking Claire, Ben and NSWCUSA Business Directory will provide Bede for their continued hard work and members with the opportunity to utilise dedication to the Association and its the services of another member, ahead of members. All continue to work tirelessly to someone in the general public. Thus, benefit members and ensure that the continuing to build on our positive Association and officiating in NSW Association spirit. continues to progress and move forward. I’d also like to thank Darren Goodger for his This Directory is provided in this journal guidance and support. and will be published on our website to

Dave Cullen watches Dan Fallins bowl against UNSW at Glenn McGrath Oval Photo: Malcolm Trees/Sutherland DCC

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State Umpiring Manager Update

Darren Goodger Congratulations Dennis Chaplin 96% in his time as a member. Rupert has We offer congratulations to Dennis Chaplin always been generous with the time and on his elevation to life membership of dedication he has for the Association. Wagga Wagga Cricket Umpires’ When not allocated to Shires First Grade he Association (WWCUA). Dennis has been a willingly offered his support standing with member of NSWCUSA for 11 years and lesser experienced umpires in lower grades president of WWCUA for nine years. Dennis and imparting his experience and has umpired over 300 matches and knowledge to those newer members. Last officiated in CNSW and country season Rupert was unable to umpire on representative programs. Dennis was field, but instead made a significant honoured with life membership of contribution to SCA competitions by WWCUA at the AGM on September 30. making himself available as an off-field observer in Premier Cricket. There is no Congratulations Bill Croese doubt that many newer umpires in those Bill Croese was made a life member of competitions learned a lot from Rupert's Highlands District Cricket Umpires’ match observations and appreciated his Association having served the Association genuine feedback. for more than 25 years as an umpire and in various administration and leadership Rupert has contributed significantly positions, including President. Bill has towards the smooth running of the SSCUA, contributed a significant amount to cricket being a dedicated Honorary Auditor for the in the highlands. He continues to umpire in last 12 seasons. the senior district competition to this day and is a most respected match official. Bill Congratulations are offered to Rupert, we has always supported NSWCUSA training look forward to his contribution as an programs held in the highlands. We offer umpire observer for many years to come. congratulations to Bill and thank him for his commitment to cricket and umpiring. Congratulations Ross McKim Ross McKim has been honoured with life Congratulations Rupert Mathews membership of Newcastle District Cricket Rupert Mathews was made a life member Umpires’ Association. A respected of the Sydney Shires Cricket Umpires’ member of the Country Umpire Association at its AGM held on September Representative Panel, Ross has given 9. Rupert has been an outstanding exceptional service to the NDCUA as an member of the SSCUA for 14 years. active umpire, board member and Treasurer. As Treasurer he has devoted He has officiated in 263 matches and has countless hours to raising funds for the also made a significant contribution to NDCUA, the Association’s financial Masters, Classics and Vintage cricket strength being attributed to Ross. Ross is a competitions as an umpire. most selfless and community-minded Rupert has been a great supporter of the person. In August this year he led a fund- SSCUA with a meeting attendance rate of raising drive which saw $2,500 raised which

8 | P a g e was used to purchase a full team cricket kit the executive. Norm also served for many for five local schools in the Newcastle years as secretary of Southern Zone Cricket District, typical of Ross always thinking Umpires’ Association prior to the zone about what he may do to assist others. restructure by NSW Country Cricket Association. He has been a wonderful Ross was selected on the Country Panel in servant to cricket and the southern season 2016-17 and has now umpired 249 highlands community across several matches, 168 of them in the Newcastle organisations, not only sporting. District Cricket Association first grade competition. Ross has stood in 20 NDCA Norm was the founder, and has been the finals and is recognised for being a great driver, of Southern Highlands Vets’ Cricket. support to his fellow members. He his He has been an inspiration to many in this highly regarded for his mentoring skills and space. Norm Stanton is a person of the time he gives his colleagues to help outstanding character, selfless and them develop as match officials. dedicated to all he undertakes. He is a worthy principal member of NSWCUSA and Congratulations Norm Ryder now a life member of HDCUA. Norm We offer congratulations to Norm Ryder organised many a training course for on being elected a life member of Far umpires in the Highlands District and North Coast Cricket Umpires’ and Scorers’ Southern Zone, always being a wonderful Association (FNCCUSA) at the AGM held on host over the years. The link below August 30. Norm has been a dedicated contains a tribute to Norm for his work on servant to cricket administration and behalf of the Southern Highlands Vets’ umpiring in Lismore and on the far north Cricket group, this shows the high regard coast. He served on the Lismore District and level of respect for Norm. Cricket Association (LDCA) for 21 years; 16 https://www.facebook.com/VCNSW/video years as secretary and five years as s/tribute-to-norm- treasurer. Norm was also the first stanton/297769820891620/ secretary/treasurer of the LJ Hooker League serving in this role for five seasons. Congratulations David Went He is a distinguished life member of LDCA We offer congratulations to David Went on and Far North Coast Cricket Council. Norm his elevation to life membership of has been umpiring since 1986, is a principal FNCCUSA at the AGM held on August 30. member of NSWCUSA, and in all forms of David has made an immense positive cricket has umpired more than 800 contribution to cricket on the far north matches. He has made an outstanding coast. He was a long serving treasurer of contribution to the annual U12 boys’ LDCA and is a life member of the Lismore carnival hosted in Lismore and to Marist Association. There have been so many Cricket Carnivals played on the far north highlights to David’s service to umpiring coast. and the game. David has been honoured with principal membership of NSWCUSA, Congratulations Norm Stanton was twice the recipient of the Kevin Pye Norm Stanton was made a life member of Medal (NSW Country Umpire of the Year), Highlands District Cricket Umpires’ umpired three WNCL matches played in Association having served the Association Sydney, a BBL trial fixture in Coffs Harbour, for more than 25 years as an umpire. Norm at two Australian Country Cricket is the current Treasurer and a member of Championships, and 14 LJ Hooker League

9 | P a g e two-day finals. He has served as a U19 Male / Transition Squad / dedicated member of the FNCCUSA NSW Blues Trial executive as secretary, treasurer and as a Rosedale Oval (November 5) valued and knowledgeable member of the Umpires: Julian Humphrey & Bob training committee. McGregor Scorers: Sue Woodhouse & Ian Wright Congratulations Colin Wood We offer congratulations to Colin Wood, a Email to Premier Cricket Umpires | Season member of NSWCUSA since 1984, who was Start honoured with life membership of NSW This message was sent to all PC umpires on Country Cricket Association at the AGM on the eve of the season. It may be of interest September 6. Colin has given outstanding to members across the State. service to cricket in Western Zone. He has been an administrator, zone and country Dear Umps, selector, and team manager, one who always selflessly served cricket and set the Good morning to you all on the eve of the highest of professional standards in his Premier Cricket season, it is great to have work. Col’s life membership of Country cricket here. We have seen changes and Cricket is richly deserved and great experienced challenges since March, but the recognition for his exceptional service. Association has adapted and progressed on the back of the leadership, innovation, CNSW Match Official Appointments positivity and good will of its management Congratulations to the many members team with support from the NSWCUSA who have been appointed to pre and early Board. To Troy, Bede, Ben and Claire it is a season representative fixtures. The most message of congratulations, appreciation, recent appointments have been: thank you and well done. We are well prepared to start the season having received WBBL Trial high quality input and information. Sixers v Thunder North Sydney Oval (October 15) To Bruce Whitehouse and all in the Comps Umpires: Roberto Howard & Sharad Patel Team – thank you for all your support of our Scorers: Sarah Berman & Robyn Sanday match officials. The resource materials produced and shared for Premier Cricket are excellent and will assist how the game is played and managed. This involved much work and collaboration. Job very well done. Thanks also to Richard Patterson at CA for his counsel as we were writing COVID supplement PCs. Richard was a good sounding board more than once.

To CNSW we extend our thanks to CEO Lee Germon and Chairman John Knox for their support and encouragement of match officials and for their leadership. They have acted in the best interests of cricket and the Tim Gumbleton watches Lachie Trewartha deliver cricket community during in a Poidevin-Gray Shield match at Manly Oval Photo: Ian Bird/MWDCC 10 | P a g e a most challenging period. It has taken support and appreciation. We take this strength of character and purpose to do so. assurance into the season with us. It is said character is exhibited in a crisis, the leadership of CNSW is a fine example of this As we commence the season please keep in in action. It has provided hope and optimism mind: in season 2020-21. • The cricket season provides us all To the SCA Committee of Management we with hope and enjoyment, in express our gratitude for the strong particular our primary beneficiaries – relationship and the opportunities provided the players. Continue to treat them to our umpires to experience being part of with respect and be encouraging of the best competition in the world. To their participation and efforts. Our Chairman Graham Gorrie and the CoM, we relationship with captains is crucial wish you all well for a successful season. in these times. Set the standard with Competition Manager Roy Formica is clear, consistent messaging, and acknowledged with thanks for his concise communication. Be prepared unconditional support of umpires and his to advise as players come to terms administration of the competition. We also with new playing conditions to assist thank in advance the many exceptional and with keeping us all safe. committed volunteers, club officials and • Umpire with empathy and patience scorers we will work with during the season in the light of the many changes – we wish them all a great cricket season. required due to the virus. Things won’t be perfect and we will learn We commence the season with six umpire from our experiences along the way. observers: Laurie Borg, Graham Chudleigh, We need to be adaptable, Errol Cranney, Bob Davis, Berend du Plessis approachable and to umpire with and Rupert Mathews. We are fortunate to common sense. have them available to provide feedback • Our role is to facilitate the game of and share experience, and appreciate their cricket so all participants can dedication. We acknowledge and thank compete hard and fairly, and derive Graham Reed for his 29 years’ service as an as much enjoyment as possible. The umpire observer. Graham has chosen to players are the centre of attention. stand down from the observer panel having Consider making enjoyment a match made an outstanding contribution. We will goal every time we umpire this celebrate with Graham his amazing service, season. Our positivity will be among his fellow members, when the appreciated by all involved. opportunity arises. We warmly welcome • Aim for our commitment to Berend du Plessis to the observer panel in teamwork and to each other to be the knowledge he will be sincere, committed the best it has ever been. Be a and make a difference to those with whom sounding board if needed and be he works. ready to support. This will continue to build spirit and community. We To our umpires, the season is here. We wish are in a great place, but we keep you the very best and much enjoyment. Our working on it and never take it for Premier Cricket umpires are genuinely granted. As Tony Wilds alluded to in respected for what we do in the cricket his convention presentation, we are community. CNSW constantly reinforces its viewed as a team, we are assessed as

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a team, and at all times we are to be First Grade Umpiring Debuts | NSW Premier a team. Cricket • Commit to being the best we can be, Andrew Coates and Sathish Kumar made by way of our positive attitude, their first grade umpiring debut in NSW approach and preparation. We aim Premier Cricket Round 5 (November 7). to show respect for every ball, to Congratulations to both umpires. stay in the moment and place the needs of the players ahead of our Andrew Coates own. Andrew joined the Association in 2015 and • Be prepared to share our has umpired 71 SCA matches, 40 of which experiences with the new playing have been in second grade. He has conditions, along with the lessons we commenced the season in great form learn, to benefit the wider group. according to the captains with a current None of us is as smart as all of us. If match average of 4.77 (out of 5). Andrew we need to make change, then we shared his first grade debut with Bruce will. Whitehouse in the Sutherland v St George fixture at Glenn McGrath Oval. Thank you for what you do, the game needs good umpires, we have them in NSW Sathish Kumar Premier Cricket. Wishing you only the best Sat joined the Association in 2014 and has for tomorrow and the season ahead. umpired 77 SCA matches, 52 of which have been in second grade. Sat has performed Enjoy. consistently well for a number of seasons and his 2020-21 match average is 4.70. Bob Enthusiasm is not a random mood; it’s a McGregor stood with Sat in his first grade daily choice. debut in the match at Chatswood Oval between Gordon and Mosman.

Andrew and Sat have performed beyond the benchmark set in recent seasons for a first grade debut. Both display a genuine commitment to excellence and deserved the opportunity. Our second grade captains have expressed their faith and trust in them to umpire at the next level. They are experienced and positive match officials who have earned the respect of the players and their peers.

They will have represented themselves and NSWCUSA to the best of their ability and we hope they enjoyed the experience.

Andrew Hamilton oversees Sydney University v Gordon at University Oval in Premier Cricket Photo: Gordon DCC

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Sheffield Shield | Umpire Appointments Round 4 The following umpires were selected for SA v QLD – the first four Sheffield Shield rounds: Phil Gillespie & Rod Tucker • Gerard Abood TAS v NSW – (New South Wales) Shawn Craig & • Darren Close VIC v WA – Gerard Abood & Sam Nogajski (Tasmania)

• Shawn Craig Congratulations to all umpires who were (Victoria) selected for these matches, all of which • Phil Gillespie were being played in Adelaide. (Victoria) WBBL|06 • Mike Graham-Smith Much has been written and said about (Tasmania) WBBL|06. It will be a wonderful series, • Donovan Koch generate substantial interest among our (Queensland) cricket community and bring new fans to • Sam Nogajski our game. (Tasmania) Supporting the players and competition • Bruce Oxenford will be a band of match officials – umpires, (Queensland) scorers and referees. They will make a • Rod Tucker significant positive contribution to the (New South Wales) success of WBBL|06 through their • Paul Wilson management of the fixtures. (New South Wales) The scorers involved have been selected by Umpire Appointments an NSWCUSA sub-committee on behalf of Round 1 CNSW. We acknowledge, offer QLD v TAS – congratulations and wish them all well: Darren Close & Bruce Oxenford • Sarah Berman SA v WA – (UTS North Sydney) Mike Graham-Smith & Donovan Koch • Janelle Carew (UNSW) Round 2 • Toni Lorraine WA v QLD – (Mosman) Darren Close & Phil Gillespie • Robyn Sanday SA v TAS – (Northern District) Gerard Abood & Sam Nogajski • Harpreet Singh (Sydney) Round 3 • Adrian Tham SA v VIC – (Eastern Suburbs) Shawn Craig & Rod Tucker • Kay Wilcoxon WA v TAS – (Fairfield-Liverpool) Gerard Abood & Phil Gillespie • Sue Woodhouse NSW v QLD – (Blacktown Mounties) Donovan Koch & Sam Nogajski

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• Ian Wright Wales in our Men’s Premier Cricket (Sydney) competition and moved interstate to seek further representative opportunities, both The match referees have been selected by have been successful. CA and are members of the National Match Referee Panel: Group 2 will service the remaining 28 • Steve Bernard matches and the finals series: (New South Wales) • Drew Crozier • David Gilbert (Australian Capital Territory) (New South Wales) • Greg Davidson • Kent Hannam (New South Wales) (Victoria) • Steven Farrell • David Johnston (Queensland) (Tasmania) • Sharad Patel (New South Wales) David Gilbert is an honorary member of • Troy Penman NSWCUSA, a former international cricketer (New South Wales) and CEO of CNSW. • Claire Polosak (New South Wales) The umpiring team has been selected by • Eloise Sheridan CA, and broken into two groups. (South Australia) • Ben Treloar Group 1 will service the first 28 matches: (New South Wales) • Greg Davidson • Mattis van Eck (New South Wales) (Victoria) • Stephen Dionysius • Tony Wilds (Queensland) (New South Wales) • Roberto Howard (New South Wales) Drew Crozier, a member of NSWCUSA, • Nathan Johnstone resides in Canberra and is a member of the () Cricket ACT Representative Umpire Panel, • Simon Lightbody but chooses to umpire Men’s Premier (New South Wales) Cricket in Sydney seeking to umpire the • Jerry Matibiri highest standard of cricket possible in the (Tasmania) best available competition. • Muhammad Qureshi (Tasmania) The number of New South Wales umpires • Bede Sajowitz selected is endorsement of them and their (New South Wales) ability, the training and coaching offered • David Taylor by NSWCUSA, the genuine support (Queensland) provided by CNSW to servicing match • Tony Wilds officials, and the Premier Cricket system (New South Wales) which has helped produce them. Each umpire makes a sincere contribution to Muhammad Qureshi and David Taylor cricket and to assisting with the commenced their umpiring in New South development of their umpiring colleagues. Each is there because they deserve to be

14 | P a g e there, each defines themselves by way of Men’s their character, chemistry, commitment Sixers Pool 1 (October 25) and performance. Coffs Coast Chargers v Northern Rivers Rock – Port Macquarie Our umpires will have energetically, Bruce Baxter & Craig Lobegeier humbly and thoroughly prepared to service the competition to the highest Macquarie Coast Stingers v Newcastle possible standard, respecting each Blasters – Port Macquarie opportunity and placing the needs of the Paul Dilley & Phil Rainger players ahead of their own. Newcastle Blasters v Coffs Coast Chargers From a match officials perspective, if you – Port Macquarie don’t stand out or get noticed in a Bruce Baxter & Phil Rainger tournament then you have been successful. Sixers Pool 2 (November 1) Northern Inland Bolters v Hunter Hitmen – We offer congratulations and best wishes Scone to our match officials, hoping they enjoy Ian James & Rod Porter the experience and learn much about themselves and their umpiring in this Central Coast Rush v Lake Mac Attack – environment. Scone Steve Eccles & Peter Smith Plan B Regional T20 Bash Congratulations and best wishes to the Northern Inland Bolters v Lake Mac Attack umpires selected for the Plan B Regional – Scone T20 Bash: Rod Porter & Peter Smith

Women’s Thunder Pool 1 (November 1) Sixers Pool 1 (October 24) South Coast Crew v Illawarra Flames – Coffs Coast Chargers v Newcastle Blasters Albion Park Rail – Port Macquarie Dave Cullen & Stephen Poidevin Paul Dilley & Phil Rainger Central West Wranglers v Orana Outlaws – Sixers Pool 2 (November 1) Orange Northern Inland Bolters v Central Coast John De Lyall & Graeme Glazebrook Rush – Scone Steve Eccles & Ian James (November 29) Orana Outlaws v Illawarra Flames – Thunder Pool 1 (November 29) Bathurst Orana Outlaws v Illawarra Flames - Mark Frecklington & Graeme Glazebrook Bathurst Greg Jones & Gary McAulley Thunder Pool 2 (November 8) ACT Aces v Murrumbidgee Rangers – Thunder Pool 2 (November 8) Wagga Wagga Border Bullets v ACT Aces – Wagga Wagga Dennis Chaplin & Tony Hackett Pat Kerin & Graham Moon

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Border Bullets v Wagga Wagga Sloggers – Gerard’s outstanding contribution. It was Wagga Wagga published on October 22. Jeff Egan & Murray Le Lievre This past week we celebrated the Wagga Wagga Sloggers v ACT Aces – achievements of Gerard Price who was Wagga Wagga awarded his OAM on Tuesday. The Jeff Egan & Murray Le Lievre announcement of Gerard Price’s OAM award (Medal of the Order of Australia) was made McDonald’s NSW Country Championships in the Queen’s Birthday honours list. Congratulations and best wishes to the umpires selected for the McDonald’s NSW Gerard has selflessly dedicated his life to the Country Championships: promotion and development of cricket. Gerard joined Briars Sports as a junior player Southern Pool Carnival – Goulburn (20-22 in 1980. He immediately excelled as a player November) and and in 1989 volunteered for the Dave Cullen role of Briars Cricket Chairman, a position he Ken Brooks has since filled with distinction for some 31 Graeme Glazebrook years. His inspirational leadership has been Neil Smith instrumental in attracting many youngsters to Briars Sports and more generally to the Northern Pool Carnival – Central Coast (27- sport of cricket. 29 November) Bruce Baxter Gerard leads by example. His amazing John De Lyall leadership style, drive, dedication, sense of Keiran Knight fairness and respect for all makes him an Phil Rainger ideal role model. The only reward Gerard has ever sought is the satisfaction of seeing the Country Umpire Coach, Neil Findlay, will successful development of the many young attend both carnivals. male and female cricketers who have been attracted to the game. Gerard Price Receives his OAM Award Gerard Price is a highly respected member He is held in high esteem by the entire of the cricket community through his work Sydney-wide cricket community due to his as a member of the CNSW staff and his selfless contribution to the sport. In 2013 exceptional contribution as a player and Gerard was inducted into the Shires Cricket administrator with the Burwood Briars Hall of Fame. Cricket Club. Since taking over as cricket chairman Gerard Gerard was awarded the Order of the has moulded the Burwood Briars Cricket Medal of Australia in 2020 for service to Club into the most successful Shires club in cricket and the community, a richly history and across those 31 years the Briars deserved honour. Gerard is known to many have won 18 Club Championships (the next NSWCUSA members. most successful club has won 3) and an amazing 40 premierships. This piece has been taken from the Briars Sports website, lovely recognition of Gerard has also played a pivotal role in the introduction, growth and overseeing of

16 | P a g e some 42 junior male and female cricket In addition to his enormous leadership in the teams at the club. Our Briars Cricket juniors sport for the benefit of others, Gerard has are the envy of many other clubs and excelled as a player having played for 40 associations. seasons with Burwood Briars, he has amassed almost 8,000 runs, taken over These successes are primarily attributable to 1,200 and has won 8 premierships as Gerard’s tireless work in attracting young a player. players to the sport through strategic planning, schools programmes and Family have always played a major role in numerous other initiatives. The team Gerard’s life and he has enjoyed wonderful building culture that Gerard has created support from his wife Jane and children ensures that all new players are then Damian (who plays for the Briars too), provided individual attention, coaching and Bethany and Erin. support that make the Briars the unique club it is. In addition, Gerard has participated in a number of major cancer fundraising events Gerard’s voluntary service to the sport as conducted by the Unicorn Foundation, the cricket chairman of Briars is complemented main events involving cycling from Sydney by his work with and to Melbourne and separately from Cricket NSW where he makes a direct and Melbourne to Adelaide raising $68,000 in valuable impact on the community in the total. Southern Sydney region. Gerard’s tenacity and ability to deal with Gerard joined Cricket NSW as Cricket adversity is an inspiration to all who know Manager in 2013 after a number of years him. working with Cricket Australia in a similar capacity. In his role he leads, inspires and Gerard Price is more than just a cricket supports communities to unite, through legend, he is an incredible person, we at the cricket. Gerard works closely with Briars are so proud of him and we are associations, clubs, 150 schools and all levels honoured to have him leading our great of government in the large and growing club. multicultural region of Southern Sydney. Congratulations Gerard Price OAM. His work has also included promoting best practice cricket administration, embedding As our principal member Gerard Abood Cricket Australia Junior formats within said recently, “There are very few people competitions, education of coaches and who have had such a positive influence supporting clubs to seek funding grants to over so many others.” upgrade facilities. How true! In summary, Gerard Price is an extraordinary leader within the Sydney-wide cricket We offer our congratulations to Gerard community. Although only in his mid-fifties, Price OAM, acknowledge and thank him for he is a person who has provided his selfless contribution to cricket and its distinguished service to the cricketing people. community for thirty years.

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Vale Ian Findlay fixtures. He also served as president of The Orange Cricket Community, and the Orange City Cricket Club. many umpires in Western Zone and NSW Country Cricket who have stood with Ian The Central Western Daily paid tribute to Findlay, mourn his passing. Ian Findlay on October 26 as a man who brought fairness, skill and business acumen to cricket in Orange. We offer our deepest sympathy, condolence and sincere respect to Ian’s family and all who grieve his passing. Vale Ian Findlay, may he rest in peace.

Balance To read Seeing the Sunrise by Justin Langer is a privilege. Opportunity is taken to share four paragraphs from this excellent book which may be relevant for many at this time…

Affectionately known as “Finners”, Ian was Balance is as critical to me as a person as it is a highly respected person in Orange for me as a professional athlete. I try to smell District Cricket Association, Mitchell those roses when I can, and when I’m not I Cricket Council and Western Zone. remind myself of the story of the famous monk who was relaxing with his disciples Ian served the game with distinction as an outside his hut, laughing and joking. umpire and administrator making a remarkable contribution. He re-joined As the monk sat and laughed, a hunter came NSWCUSA in 2017 and in that time has by and expressed surprise at what he was umpired State Challenge carnivals in seeing. The hunter’s perception of a holy Dubbo being a valued member of the monk was of a quiet man, always deep in match officials team. prayer or meditation, not of a chirpy individual lazing about, laughing with his Ian was the winner of the Peter Weston friends. The monk said to the hunter, ‘Bend Medal in 2014-15 as Mitchell Cricket Council your bow and shoot an arrow.’ After the Umpire of the Year. He has been a long hunter did this, the monk asked him to do so serving chairman of the Orange Branch of again…and again…and again. Mitchell Cricket Umpires’ Association being a wonderful host of many NSWCUSA Eventually the hunter objected, saying, ‘If I training courses held in Orange over the keep my bow always stretched, it will break.’ past decade. Ian possessed a genuine commitment to The monk smiled, ‘The same is true of us,’ he excellence, a thirst for knowledge and self- said. ‘If we do not relax from time to time, improvement. He was a man of impeccable we too will break.’ character.

Ian officiated at representative level in Mitchell Cricket Council and Western Zone

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Thought • What have I been avoiding that needs to There is nothing noble in being superior to get done? others. True nobility lies in being superior to your former self. • What opportunities are still on the table? Indian Proverb • Is there anyone I’ve been meaning to talk

to? Self-reflection questions (Adapted from a piece by Angel Chernoff) • Is there anyone that deserves a big ‘Thank You’? At the cusp of new beginnings many of us take time to reflect on our lives by looking • How can I help someone else this coming back over the past and ahead into the week? future. We ponder the successes, failures • What are my top three goals for the next and standout events that are slowly scripting our life’s story. This process of three years? self-reflection helps maintain a conscious • Have any of my recent actions moved me awareness of where we’ve been and where we intend to go. It is pertinent to closer to my goals? the organisation and preservation of our • What’s the next step for each goal? dreams, goals and desires. • What am I looking forward to during the

Reflection is a key to development, upcoming week? improvement and progression. • What are my fears? If you choose to maximise the benefits of self-reflection here are questions to • What am I most grateful for? consider when you have some quiet time • If I knew I only had one week to live, who to think. would I spend my time with? (this is a

• What did I learn last week? helpful reminder … life is short. Spend • What was my greatest accomplishment more time with the people we care about.) over the past week? Vote of Thanks • Which moment from last week was the Thank you to our management team for most memorable and why? the outstanding work that has been undertaken in recent months. Troy and • What’s the #1 thing I need to accomplish Bede have done an excellent job in this week? administering and managing the • What can I do right now to make the week Association and in servicing our members and affiliated umpire associations. Ben and less stressful? Claire have been phenomenal in the variety • What have I struggled with in the past that of education, development and training opportunities offered to members and might also affect the upcoming week? prospective members. • What was last week’s biggest time sink? • Am I carrying any access baggage into the Thank you to committee members and office-bearers who do a wonderful job for week that can be dropped? the Association.

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ball by staying in the moment, remains Thank you to the board for supporting the composed, goes unnoticed and does not management team. stand out is well and truly on the road to success. Cricket is being played right across New South Wales, our members are managing Thank you to all members of the fixtures with empathy and common sense Association for your support and positive and displaying effective teamwork. May approach. An enthusiastic heart finds we all continue to enjoy our involvement opportunities everywhere. and make the best contribution to cricket we can. We are making a difference. The match official who shows respect to every

Bob McGregor officiates at Bankstown Oval Photo: Ian Bird/MWDCC

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Well Played

Darren Goodger Opportunity is taken to provide members • You set the example. Your behaviour and with information from Australian Cricket’s comments should be positive and Playing Policies and Guidelines. supportive; There are various codes of behaviour • Place the safety and welfare of contained in the document, all of which participants above all else; are based on the Australian Sports • Respect the rights, dignity and worth of Commission codes and have been adapted every person regardless of their gender, to reflect the principles and Spirit of ability, cultural background or religion. Cricket in Australia. Parents Code of Behaviour The codes ensure that participants • Do not force an unwilling child to develop good sporting behaviours and an participate in cricket; inherently positive cricket experience, • Remember, children are involved in cricket which encourages them to remain for their enjoyment, not yours; involved in cricket throughout their lives. • Encourage your child to play by the rules; The following codes of behaviour identify • a selection of key principles upon which Focus on the child’s efforts and umpires and parents should base their performance rather than winning or cricket involvement. losing; • Never ridicule or yell at a child for making Umpires Code of Behaviour a mistake or losing a game; • Compliment and encourage all • Remember that children learn best by participants; example. Appreciate good performances • Be consistent, objective and courteous and skilful play by all participants; when making decisions; • Support all efforts to remove verbal and • Condemn unsporting behaviour and physical abuse from sporting activities; promote respect for all participants; • Respect officials’ decisions and teach • Emphasise the spirit of the game rather children to do likewise; than the errors; • Show appreciation for volunteer coaches, • Encourage and promote rule changes officials and administrators. Without which will make participation more them, your child could not participate; enjoyable; • Respect the rights, dignity and worth of • Be a good sport yourself - actions speak every person regardless of their gender, louder than words; ability, cultural background or religion. • Keep up-to-date with the latest available Australian Cricket’s Playing Policies and resources for umpiring and the principles Community Guidelines can be read in full of growth and development of young at: community.cricket.com.au people;

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Education Officer Update

Ben Treloar What a busy few months we have had since • Scorer sessions – the last edition of In Black and White. We’ve Claire Polosak and Ian Wright, Christine seen our first ever virtual Convention Bennison and Narelle Johnston through to hosting multiple ordinary o https://youtu.be/jUAch-qZ0S0 o general meetings, Laws of Cricket (level II) https://youtu.be/WOf704Ebb6A • and CA Community Officiating courses, Country Umpire Representative Panel o https://youtu.be/k7B0xAs4_J0 SCA rules nights as well as a new umpire • Chris Nunn workshop, all online. • Tom West o https://youtu.be/g0dc_BsDqaQ September saw the Association’s first ever • Premier Cricket Observers online Convention. The current o https://youtu.be/J9HiGy0IAdA environment has thrown up significant • Law Sessions – Scorer & Umpire challenges, though, has also created o https://youtu.be/3QD4ps3QrBM opportunities to futureproof and expand o https://youtu.be/3cm1PpXYbyo the Association’s reach and capabilities. Supplementing the Convention, we have

held SCA Rules Nights for Panels 1, 2, 3 and The challenge was to provide the 4. With the staggered commencement of membership with the same quality of the NSW Premier Cricket season we saw training, education and development as we separate rules nights catered for Panel 1 have seen in previous seasons. There was a and 2 then, Panel 3 and 4 respectively. In significant amount of work behind the preparation, umpires were supplied with a scenes – the management, education and Google form which provided access to training teams, NSWCUSA members and videos relating to Game 3 playing special guests who prepared presentations condition’s application of wides, fast short- for the benefit of others. Special thanks are pitched and non-pitching deliveries. Their offered to the following: application was discussed during the

virtual sessions to assist with uniform • Panel discussion – Gerard Abood, Mel Jones, Claire Polosak application across the panels. Game 3 was and Paul Wilson the focus for both rules nights, as all o https://youtu.be/AbuPtEksY-U Grades would commence the season with • The Resilience Project – limited overs cricket. Hugh Van Cuylenburg • Nutrition – On top this, the COVID Supplement PCs Sally Anderson were also looked at and we thank all those o https://youtu.be/6yxONTS8e3E members who asked questions and • Preparation & Self-assessment, queried their application. Through this Teamwork, and Decision Making – process, there have already been changes Greg Davidson, Simon Lightbody and Tony and additions to ensure the health and Wilds safety of all involved is paramount. Troy o https://youtu.be/gnZo2ENpBjI Penman took us through the additions and • Leadership – changes to the SCA Policies as well as the COVID Umpire Checklist. 22 | P a g e

We are encouraging members to share tireless and committed work of Andrew their experiences so that we can all learn Coates, Darren Goodger, Mark Hughes, from each other – please don’t hesitate to Troy Penman, Claire Polosak and Bede get in touch. Sajowitz.

Also, during the pre-season we saw the Moving forward into the season we will onboarding of our new members. They had continue to see education and training their own rules night focusing on Game 3 sessions held at each Ordinary General PCs as well as separate session covering Meeting incorporating the excellent work Association matters, tips for new umpires, by the Exam Committee lead by Andrew routine and processes and advice from a Coates covering laws and playing recent new umpire to NSW Premier Cricket conditions as well as monthly law hosted by Andrew Coates, Darren Goodger questions and answers distributed to the and Troy Penman. membership.

Thank you to all members who joined us for Sincere thanks from NSWCUSA Education these sessions and to those who prepared and Training team to all involved and we and assisted with all pre-season education wish all members a successful and and training sessions. The smooth and enjoyable season 2020-21. professional running of each is down to the

The Panel Discussion hosted by Mel Jones was the first live session of the Online Convention

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2020 Principal Membership Recipients Respond

Had the Annual General Meeting have Ivan Holland been held as per previous years, those upgraded to Principal Membership would This honour has come as have been afforded the opportunity to a complete surprise to accept their upgrade with a speech on the me. However I am very night. honoured and humbled. I joined the SSCUA in In lieu of this, similar to last season’s season 2000/01. Annual Dinner award winners, each member was offered the chance to pen a I have umpired close to four hundred piece of acceptance for this edition of In games with them. I have enjoyed every Black and White for distribution to their game I have umpired. I have also made fellow members. many friends with fellow umpires, players and club officials. Peter Done I would like to thank Steve Bloomfield, In acknowledging my Darren Goodger, George Richards and upgrade to Principal many other fellow umpires. Membership of NSWCUSA, I would I also wish to thank all those involved in like to thank the following in my bestowing this honour on me. development and encouragement for umpiring. Best wishes

My local association, Shoalhaven District Pat Kerin OAM Cricket Umpires Association, the old Southern Zone Cricket Umpires I am very honoured Association executive and the many and thrilled. In fact, I members who I have stood with at various am absolutely stoked cricket carnivals over the past 20 years. to receive Principal Membership of I feel privileged to have been nominated NSWCUSA. and approved by State Manager Cricket Umpiring, Darren Goodger and the Moving into umpiring seemed to be a members of NSWCU&SA at the recent natural progression to keep involved with AGM. cricket after playing senior cricket for 36 years.

After not being selected for the first game of the 2003-04 season, I immediately retired from playing and for last 17 seasons

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I have - for the most part - enjoyed my time Drew Morrow in the middle. I’d like to thank the I wish to thank Jack Mission and Jack Jolley membership of the from Wagga who conducted the Laws of Association for Cricket training nights in Cootamundra in voting to upgrade 2003. my membership to that of Principal In conclusion, I wish to thank Darren Member at the Goodger for his encouragement over the recent AGM. years and to all those umpires who I have officiated with, thank you your friendship I joined the Association in 1988 having and support. already been a regular umpiring member of the Hornsby Kuring-Gai & Hills District Cricket Umpires Association for some years Graham Moon and upon strong encouragement of fellow umpiring mates in Hornsby who had I would like to thank already joined the Sydney the NSWCUSA umpiring ranks. Board of Directors for the honour of Thanks to them and their contacts, I have Principal established long-term friendships both on Membership. and off the field with many other Association members with whom I’ve I am also grateful for the opportunities I enjoyed both umpiring and socialising, have received to umpire with great people particularly at our traditional quarterly and in all forms of the game both across the Christmas luncheons at City Tattersalls state and locally in the Cootamundra and Club over the years. Wagga Wagga area. At the risk of omission, I recognise regulars past and present including Tom Brooks, The NSWCUSA are lucky to have great Charlie Aubrey, Phil Bovey, John Reisman, training opportunities provided by John Thompson, Chris Weir, John Yates, Darren Goodger and his team. John Barnes, Tony Kingsford-Smith, Lindsay Kain and Bruce Parfett. A special thanks goes to my wife Sue for her encouragement and support over my I am particularly privileged to have been umpiring time. officially and socially involved with Association Hall of Fame legend Tom It appears that receiving the award Brooks with whom I umpired exclusively must have been a bit much as I had a heart over many seasons in the GPS competition. attack the following week. All has turned Needless to say, I learned a lot from Tom in out OK and I am back to full health! that time we had together as umpires before he sadly passed away in 2007 at the grand age of 88.

I value my elevation to Principal Membership and intend to continue to

25 | P a g e represent the Association in the GPS still enjoying the vagaries of this great competition for many years to come. game.

Dan O’Connor John Oliver

I started my I was truly humbled umpiring career as a to receive this award result of breaking but honestly, I think I my collarbone in a owe cricket so much. Second Grade Final It has given me in the 1994-95 countless hours of season in the Tamworth District Cricket enjoyment. Association competition. There were only I have also met some of the nicest and 8 umpires in the TDCU&SA at that time selfless people through cricket. I have also and I was encouraged to continue my love met some of the finest young men and of cricket by joining the “dark side”. women you could ever wish for. The game itself has taught me character building and The key to my longevity in umpiring has helped me on and off the field. been the mentors and characters I have met that have ensured I remained keen I truly think that watching and and loyal - and above all enjoyed, listened participating in this magnificent game has and learnt. I qualified for the local badge made me a better person. I really love the in 1996-97 and passed the NSWCUSA game of cricket and almost all of my 800 exam in 1998 and have been a member of plus games have been a joy to be there! both organisations since that time. Rod Tucker I have had a number of roles in the TDCU&SA including four years as It was a nice Secretary/Treasurer, 10 years as a surprise and an selector/training officer and six years as honour to be President. My highlights include five First awarded Principal Grade Grand finals and appearances in all Membership. other grade grand finals over the years. Other officiating has included two War NSWCUSA have been so supportive Veterans Cup Finals, Bradman Cup Finals throughout my umpiring career. and NRMA carnivals at Scone and Particularly in my early years in grade Raymond Terrace. Last season I also cricket, the support I received was officiated with a TDCU&SA Life member, fantastic. The experience in the ranks to John Thompson, in the England vs fall back on was so helpful. In those early Northern NSW Over 60s match which days, names like Shane Reed, Nick Fowler, reinforced the good things about cricket Darren Goodger, Jim Cameron, Dick and accepting the “umpire’s decision”. French and Simon Taufel along with all umpiring partners were always available As noted previously, supportive, to answer questions and offer advice. competent and loyal colleagues have been the key to my remaining in the game and Thank you to all the members for their support.

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Lindsay Wood OAM continue my love of the game and has led to many friendships formed with players, I am pleased to have fellow umpires and cricket officials. It has been given the also provided me with the opportunity to opportunity to give back to cricket in some part what respond to cricket has given to me. NSWCUSA’s award of Principal Over those twenty-two years umpiring Membership bestowed involving some 365 matches in the senior on me along with eight others at the Grades of the Maitland District Association’s AGM in September. It was competition there have been some particularly pleasing to have been milestones to remember - my debut A included with six other regional country Grade match at Hinton Oval at the start of umpires, showing the Association’s intent the 1994-95 season; my first First Grade to recognise the service of umpires “in the Final at Robins Oval with Glen Crew in bush”, outside of the Sydney metropolitan March 1998; the MDCA award for Umpire area. of the Year in 2010-11;and my farewell retirement Fifth Grade Final match at Bill My interest in umpiring was initially Bobbins Oval in Raymond Terrace in sparked in the 1960s when, as a teacher at March 2016. Maitland Boys High School, I became involved (1962-79) in coaching U13/14 Particularly enjoyable have been grade cricket teams that also required officiating (“a real umpire’s treat”) and umpiring their matches in inter-school organising umpires (a few headaches competitions. In those High School teams there sometimes) for the numerous junior two talented youngsters who “caught my cricket Carnivals and Championships held eye” whilst umpiring and coaching were in Maitland, including NSW PSSA David Johnston and Michael Cox, both of Knockout Boys and Girls Finals (2002-18); whom went on to play Sheffield Shield NSW All Schools Carnivals; NSWCHS Boys cricket for NSW and WA respectively. and Girls Championships and Davidson Shield KO Finals. From 1965-75 I also coached Black Hill Club’s U16 cricket teams and umpired These fixtures bring back quite a few their matches in the Maitland District memories - seeing the Blackwell twins, Junior Cricket Association’s competitions Alex and Kate, and Alyssa Healy playing in on Saturday mornings. some of those early junior matches and officiating at the bowler’s end in another After some thirty years playing with Black match at Maitland Park when Steve Hill, Bolwarra and Northern Suburbs Clubs Waugh’s son, Austin, was bowling and his in the competitions of the Maitland & father, the former Australian Test captain, District Cricket Association, I decided that was standing as a sole figure directly the time had come “to call it a day” and behind on the boundary. take up umpiring instead. At the other end of the age spectrum it That was a decision that after twenty-two has been a pleasure to umpire veteran years (1994-2016) I have never regretted. cricket matches such as those involving Umpiring has given me an opportunity to the Australian Old Collegians; former Emu

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Club Reunion players; Over 60s NSW in country centres (ones in particular by Veteran teams and an Auckland Over 60s Darren Goodger in Maitland in 2011 and touring team. another by Laurie Borg at Scone in 2017- both very informative and entertaining); At one stage there was even the unusual by the Annual Conventions (one in and one-off experience of umpiring a Blind particular that I attended at Terrigal in Cricket match on the Newcastle No.1 2000 where Alan Marshall, Dick French Sportsground. and Ted Wykes were speakers; and by the practical umpire guidance information In receiving this award, I would like to forwarded in the In Black and White thank some of my early local umpiring journals. mentors who helped me along the way - especially Maitland and Hunter Valley Finally my thanks once again to NSWCUSA umpires Max Elphick; Rod Ninness; Arthur for the unexpected award and to those Hassett and Graham Teasdale. who were responsible for my nomination. I am indeed privileged and humbled to My thanks also is extended to the receive such recognition and to have NSWCUSA for the support that they have become a Principal Member of the given me by way of Training Courses held Association.

Unable to receive his certificate last year, Alan Hollebrandse was presented with his Principal Member certificate by Ian James at the Northern Inland CUSA AGM

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Around the Zones

Neil Findlay A number of Affiliates bestowed Life Each of these Life Members is be Membership on members of their congratulated on having been deservedly Associations at their recent 2020 Annual recognised both for their invaluable service General Meetings. In each case, this to their particular umpiring body and to the honour was awarded for significant long- game of cricket in general. standing contributions to the respective Associations both on and off the field.

The recipients of these Life Membership awards are:

• Far North Coast CUSA o Darren Goodger o Norm Ryder o David Went

• Highlands District CUA o Bill Croese o Norm Stanton

• Newcastle District CUA o Ross McKim

• Sydney Shires CUA o Rupert Matthews

• Wagga Wagga CUA o Dennis Chaplin

Rob Pye with Dennis Chaplin in Dubbo last season at the State Challenge carnival

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India Tour & WBBL Finals Scorers Confirmed

Bede Sajowitz NSWCUSA is delighted to announce the SCG – Toni and Ian scoring the first ODI on scorer appointments that have been made 27 November with Robyn and Ian together for the WBBL Finals Series and the for the second on 29 November. upcoming India tour. Adrian Tham will make his T20 The WBBL Finals will be held over three International debut at the SCG on 6 nights next week (25, 26 & 28 November) December in the Second T20I, with Ian all at North Sydney Oval. Wright to be his partner for the match.

The Final will be scored by Toni Lorraine Ian and Toni will be together as well for the and Kay Wilcoxon. Kay will be recording Third T20I, scheduled for the SCG on 8 her second WBBL Final, whilst it will be December. Toni’s first WBBL Final. Australia A will host Indian sides in two tour Both Toni and Ian Wright will be recording matches prior to the Test series their second semi-final as the pair score the commencing in Adelaide on 17 December. opening semi-final on 25 November. Australia A and India A are scheduled for a Robyn Sanday and Adrian Tham will be three-day match at Drummoyne from 6 scoring their first WBBL semi-final as they December, with Sarah Berman and Robyn oversee the second semi-final on 26 Sanday to record. November. Australia A will also host an Indian XI in a Ian Wright will be involved in scoring each three-day day-night fixture at the SCG from international match played at the SCG this 11 December, which will be scored by Toni summer as India plays Australia in T20s, Lorraine and Adrian Tham. ODIs and Test matches. We extend congratulations to all Ian will make his Test debut in the New NSWCUSA scorers on their appointments Years’ Test at the SCG, beginning on 7 for these upcoming representative January – his partner, Toni Lorraine will be fixtures. scoring her third.

Full appointments are as follows: Ian, Toni and Robyn Sanday will be recording the ODI matches played at the

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WBBL|06 Finals Series Dettol Men’s T20 International Series Semi Final 1 - Wednesday 25 November Second T20I - Sunday 6 December North Sydney Oval Toni Lorraine and Ian Wright Adrian Tham and Ian Wright

Semi Final 2 - Thursday 26 November Third T20I - Tuesday 8 December North Sydney Oval Sydney Cricket Ground Robyn Sanday and Adrian Tham Toni Lorraine and Ian Wright

Final - Saturday 28 November Vodafone Men’s Test Series North Sydney Oval Third Test - 7-11 January Toni Lorraine and Kay Wilcoxon Sydney Cricket Ground Toni Lorraine and Ian Wright India Tour Dettol Men’s ODI Series Tour Matches First ODI - Friday 27 November Australia A v India A - 6-8 December Sydney Cricket Ground Drummoyne Oval Toni Lorraine and Ian Wright Sarah Berman and Robyn Sanday

Second ODI - Sunday 29 November Australia A v Indians - 11-13 December Sydney Cricket Ground Sydney Cricket Ground Robyn Sanday and Ian Wright Toni Lorraine and Adrian Tham

Kay Wilcoxon and Adrian Tham overseeing a Sheffield Shield fixture at the SCG last season

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Country Championships Return

Bede Sajowitz After an off-season like no other, the Coast, also for the second consecutive McDonald’s NSW Country Championships season. returns this weekend with the Southern Pool carnival taking place in Goulburn. Another four members of the Country Panel will be involved in this carnival – also This season marks the second consecutive to be held over three-days. These umpires season the Southern Pool tournament has will be Bruce Baxter, John De Lyall, Keiran been held in the Southern Tablelands city. Knight and Phil Rainger.

A panel of four umpires from the Country The remaining four zones will be in Umpire Representative Panel have been attendance on the Central Coast, these appointed to oversee the three-day being Central Coast, Central Northern, carnival: Ken Brooks, Dave Cullen, Graeme Newcastle and North Coastal. Glazebrook and Neil Smith. Due to COVID restrictions, this season Across the three days, each umpire will there will not be a Country Championships stand with each other in matches Final held, with the highest placed team featuring four of the eight zones of across both carnivals being awarded the Country Cricket – ACT Southern Districts, title. Greater Illawarra, Riverina and Western. All fixtures will be one day matches with The following weekend will see the play beginning at 10am on the first two Northern Pool carnival held on the Central days and 9.30am on the final days across both carnivals.

Graeme Glazebrook and Neil Smith together ahead of last season’s Country Championship Final

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Get to Know Your Bush Umpires

Bruce Whitehouse As part of a Country Cricket NSW Facebook In your opinion, who is the best Country series, we’re getting to know the players player you have umpired? and umpires at the forefront of cricket in the bush – the Bush Blues, the Bush Best I have seen so far is Simon Moore Breakers and the members of the Country followed closely by Tom Groth. Umpire Representative Panel. Best umpire you have stood with?

Name: Phillip Rainger The best in country cricket would be Sam CURP Cap Number: 42 Rees and Kim Norris. Both had time and Home Association: would also be happy to part with all their Manning River DCA knowledge to help their colleague. In Zone: North Coastal/Newcastle Sydney the best I have stood with is Greg Did you play the game before you took up Davidson. umpiring? Who did you play with? Who is the most annoying roommate?

Played with a number of clubs - Coolatai in Haven’t had any, however I am probably an the Yallaroi Competition, then Golf Club in annoying roommate as I have caused of the Moree Comp then Tatts Hotel in the some sleepless nights from my room mates Narrabri Comp. Was a top-order bat and from my sleeping habits? keeper. Would probably still be playing now if it wasn’t for some stern Why should someone take up umpiring? words from Sam Rees about giving up playing and taking up umpiring and giving The best seat in the house to see our that a good hard crack? wonderful game. There is no better way to give back than umpiring as you will see When and where did you start umpiring? some great cricket and also meet some great characters that will give you great I started umpiring in Narrabri. We had a pleasure. course and the then President didn’t have enough numbers for the course and asked Name: John de Lyall me to do it. I passed and joined the CURP Cap Number: 53 association in October 2005. First game Home Association: Dubbo DCA was a Country Plate game at Walgett Zone: Western against Pilliga. Continued to play for a few years then took up umpiring full-time. Did you play the game before you took up umpiring? Who did you play with? What does it mean to you being part of the NSW Country Representative Panel? For 38 years across Wallsend, Warren Rugby, Nevertire Bogan Fleas, Wongarbon It is the pinnacle of umpiring in country and Dubbo Macquarie. NSW. It’s a great privilege to be recognised with the past and present greats that are on our distinguished list. 33 | P a g e

with no matter what the grade or competition.

Who is the most annoying roommate?

Easily Steve Eccles.

Name: Ross McKim CURP Cap Number: 45 Home Association: Newcastle DCA Zone: Newcastle

Did you play the game before you took up umpiring? Who did you play with?

Yes, I played till I was 55. Four years with Southern Lakes (now Toronto), 13 years John De Lyall, Keith Griffiths and Ken Brooks with Merewether and nine years with

Wallsend.

When and where did you start umpiring? When and where did you start umpiring?

In 2004 in Dubbo. I began umpiring in 2005 while still playing, What does it mean to you being part of the played Saturday and umpired Sundays, NSW Country Representative Panel? before becoming a full-time umpire in 2008-09 season. Part of a great collegiate of mates made up from all walks of life and personalities with What does it mean to you being part of the a desire to still be contributing to the NSW Country Representative Panel? game. My appointment to the CURP is the In your opinion, who is the best Country something that I treasure as an player you have umpired? acknowledgement of my umpiring ability and passion for the sport. The comradery Tim Cox, Australian Country bowler… between the different members of the knew how to set up a batsman. panel has been outstanding and has, during my time, been devoid of all egos. Jordan Moran, Australian Country Just like-minded people doing what they batsman… brutal love. My involvement has certainly Tim Berry, Western All Rounder… a great enhanced my development as an umpire player on his day. and more importantly as a person.

Best umpire you have stood with? In your opinion, who is the best Country player you have umpired? Kim Norris for game management with tough competitors and Andrew Hamilton Batsmen - without doubt the best country for working with his partner right across cricketer that I have umpired is Simon two-day cricket. Moore, hard as nails but very fair, has high expectations of himself and the umpires. However, I believe you can learn something from every umpire you stand 34 | P a g e

Bowler - Chris Archer from the Central When and where did you start umpiring? Coast is an outstanding ‘leftie’. Started December 2002 in Wagga Wagga. Best umpire you have stood with? What does it mean to you being part of the Again without doubt the two games I have NSW Country Representative Panel? stood with Darren Goodger have given me more insight into what is required to It means just about everything. I feel very become a good umpire and were two of privileged and honoured. the most enjoyable I have experienced. In your opinion, who is the best Country The umpire that I enjoy standing with the player you have umpired? most is Anthony Hobson. Great guy on and There are so many, and I don’t think it off the field and a great umpire. would be fair to single anyone out.

Who is the most annoying roommate? Best umpire you have stood with?

Unequivocally Crombie Graeme Glazebrook with quite a number Why should someone take up umpiring? very close behind.

The game is not the same without umpires. Who is the most annoying roommate?

It provides a pathway option to become or Undoubtedly Steve Eccles, he wins hands remain involved in a game which many down. people love but may not be that good at playing or have passed your playing time.

For anyone who has any interest in the game it is something that provides the greatest of satisfaction together with the greatest of personal challenges in dealing with your own and others’ perceptions of your frailties.

Learning to deal with all types of people in all types of situations is something that is extremely rewarding.

Name: Tony Hackett CURP Cap Number: 35 Home Association: Cricket Wagga Wagga Zone: Riverina Tony Hackett and Peter Kent at the Did you play the game before you took up State Challenge carnival in Dubbo umpiring? Who did you play with? Why should someone take up umpiring? I played the game from a very young age until I was about 45. I played with 3 clubs in If you love cricket, try it. It’s the best seat Wagga Wagga - Leagues Club, South in the house (old cliché) but true. I love the Wagga and Mount Austin. interaction with other umpires and players.

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Technical

Ben Treloar Technique and Fieldcraft – Bowler’s end Self-talk, counter, striker, crease, ball, pitch, impact. Self-talk, counter, striker, crease, ball, pitch, impact. Self-talk, counter, striker, crease, ball, pitch, impact. Self-talk, counter, striker, crease, ball, pitch, impact. Self-talk, counter, striker, crease, ball, pitch, impact. And repeat…

If you can’t, try writing down what you think you do. You could make this a match goal going forward – focus on an aspect of your bowler’s end routine you would like to improve then, implement and reflect.

Some things to consider may be… How good is it to have cricket back?! • What is my bowler’s end routine? • Am I doing the same thing every delivery? This 2020-21 season will require umpires to • When do I click the counter? Is it at the embrace the fact we are playing under same time each delivery? supplemented playing conditions whilst • Where is the striker in relation to the still playing the same game of cricket. Yes, popping crease? it will be a change to the norm but it’s important to remember that we continue The COVID Supplement Playing Conditions to focus on building our strengths and look describe what can’t be placed on the ball – to continually improve our routines, saliva and sweat from the face, neck or processes and techniques – simple things arms. Considering this change, our to an excellent standard. bowler’s end routine may need to adapt. The striker’s end umpire would normally, What does this look like as a bowler’s end and will continue to, follow the ball back to routine? Doing the same thing every time the bowler keeping an eye on its at the same time. management. Throughout this, the bowler’s end umpire would have eye Reflect on your own routines and contact with their partner and leave the processes at the bowler’s end. What do ball monitoring to them. However, for you do every delivery? Can you picture this those umpiring on the own, our focus in your mind, can you write it down without would be watching the ball back to the thinking about it? If you can, then you have bowler. developed a simple yet consistent bowler’s end routine. An example could be the To assist with keeping participants safe, following, though, everyone’s will be the umpire at the bowler’s end may need different… to have more of a presence, paying closer attention to the management of the ball Self-talk, counter, striker, crease, ball, pitch, impact. 36 | P a g e once it goes from cover to mid-off and game. For example, if the ball is played to a onto the bowler. Until the bowler gets to fielder at short mid-off and the batsmen the top of their mark, should the bowler’s take off for a quick single, we know there’s end umpire have eyes on the ball? a need to quickly get to a position on the popping crease with enough time to be Keep in mind the focus here should not be still, and then adjudicate on the potential trying to find the fielding team breaching run out. If we can’t get to the popping the COVID PCs, but the aim should be to crease, 45 degrees and stationery is an keep the game’s participants safe. ideal position.

Breaches will occur this year. Was is inadvertent or was it a deliberate attempt? Remember, we are trying to alter a fielder’s behaviour, a behaviour which is embedded in the sub-conscious due to many years of polishing practice – this will take time and constant reminders to change.

Most, if not all participants, will be doing the right thing to make sure we are playing as much cricket as possible. If there is a breach, can we manage it positively through management, education and a thorough cleaning of the ball? I’m sure we can.

If the fielder is on the boundary for the same shot and we move at the same fast pace, the perception of the umpire could be that they lack match awareness and composure. For the balls played to long off and on, an umpire can still move with purpose but at a far less breakneck speed, keeping the head up and eyes on the play checking for batsmen running to the side of the pitch, looking for the touch down at Another aspect of the bowler’s end is our the popping crease and where the movement when the ball is played into the batsmen are when the ball is released for field. There’s a lot of limited overs cricket potential overthrows. this year and there could be quite a few attempted run outs at the bowler’s end We can anticipate the required effort and from fielders inside the field restriction subsequent movement by knowing where circle but, also a lot of fielders will be out the fielders are for that delivery. Is patrolling the long off and long on checking for fielders part of your pre- boundaries. delivery routine? Knowing where the fielders are placed will help an umpire move with the pace of the

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Female Engagement

Claire Polosak The winter training season proved busy for - Monday October 26: recruiting new NSWCUSA members, Building player and umpire particularly female members. We have relationships with Irish cricketer welcomed 12 new female umpire members and SACA umpire Mary Waldron since last season. Name Suburb The beginning of the season in Chloe Atkinson Oak Flats metropolitan and regional NSW has seen 13 Veneta Bailey Northmead female umpires in action. Congratulations to Veneta, Beryl, Alice, Sophia and Kelly Baird Northmead Shannon who at the moment have all Jessica Hankinson Fairfield West umpired their very first games. I have heard Beryl McCormack Gunnedah some very positive reports from your Leone Mizzi Castle Hill partners! Ash Malalasekera Annandale Pratichi Prajapati Seven Hills Congratulations to Sue Gregory and Sophia Richards Speers Point Elizabeth O’Dwyer who after a fantastic Kate Rowlands Casino season in 2019-20 have been promoted to Alice Whelan Barden Ridge Panel 3 in Men’s Premier Cricket. This year Catherine Wood Lowesdale we also welcome back Michelle Evans to umpiring in Premier Cricket. This pre-season has looked very different to past years, instead of coming together Many Affiliated Associations have females for a day of practical training, there were umpiring in their competitions. Thank you four online sessions held, along with for the support and additional guidance readings and laws questions to complete, going into the new season, not only for all aimed to prepare the umpires across a new female umpires, but new umpires in variety of subjects and were well received general. There are female umpires by those in attendance. officiating in the NSW Women’s Premier Cricket, Camden DCA, Central Coast CA, The sessions were: Cricket Albury Wodonga, Newcastle DCA, - Tuesday October 13: Tamworth DCA, Gunnedah DCA. Cricket Australia Umpiring Fieldcraft and Technique with Ben If there are any other Affiliated Treloar and myself Associations who have female umpires - Thursday October 15: officiating, please reach out so I can include New Umpire Question and Answer the umpires in communication and any Session with Sue Redfern (England) development opportunities that may arise. - Thursday October 22: Female-specific nutrition session All the very best for the upcoming season, with advanced sports nutritionist stay well and look after yourselves. Sally Anderson

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November 2020 Merchandise Winner

To claim your prize please call Bede Sajowitz on 0427 947 000.

$100 Merchandise Voucher

10/4656 -UF

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Association Partners

Troy Penman This coming season will see NSWCUSA Conventions and in recent seasons both continue its sponsorship agreement with OGMs and training courses. global fast food chain McDonald’s. On a number of occasions, by way of a The sponsorship deal with McDonald’s is in grant, the club have covered the cost of the conjunction with a larger deal between venue hire, freeing up Association funds to Cricket NSW and McDonald’s and has been be available to be used for the benefit of renewed for season 2020-21. McDonald’s members. We thank the Club and their will continue on the back of the Board for their continued support. Association’s field shirts. Another of the Association’s partners – the The Association has received $7,500 + GST Bradman Foundation – are returning to initially, with positive discussions for the support the Association again for season amount to increase this season and then 2020-21. see the partnership continue in coming years. All members receive a 10% discount on entry into the Bradman International Cricket Hall The revenue from the sponsorship deal of Fame at Bowral and a 10% discount on all with McDonald’s will be invested in items products in their Merchandise Store. for members, education and development, offset costs for members and guests to Additionally, they attend Association events and an upgrade are offering an to Association products. umpires’ mug at the special price of Since 2016, Beastwear has manufactured $16 including our merchandise - we are pleased for this postage. To reserve association to continue into another one please at the season. The Association looks forward to special price, continuing this partnership into the future please contact [email protected] and ensuring members are provided with with your postal address and you will be quality on and off field wear. sent a link for payment.

In recent years, the Association has hosted a number of events at Bankstown Sports Club. These include Annual Dinners, Annual

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Keiran Knight

Harpreet Singh

Claire Polosak

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60 SECONDS WITH KIERAN KNIGHT

Day Job? Foster carer Officiating Debut? T20 Matches at Martin Park Wodonga. The first time you Same day in a B grade match missed a nick onto his pads and fired someone? gave him LBW. Career officiating 2 x Provincial First Grade finals in Cricket Albury Wodonga highlight (so far)? 2 x Premier Cricket Grand finals 1x Thirds 1 x Fourths 2 x Country Championships 2 x National Championships 1x U17 Male 1 x U18 Female 6 x WNCL matches 4 x WBBL matches 2 x conference finals at SCG Border Bash in Albury Sydney Thunder vs Melbourne Stars Best cricketer you have I have been fortunate to umpire some test players over the officiated? years but the one player I think the best have seen regularly would be Ben Rohrer. Strangest/funniest Played in a Fourth Grade game in the late 80s against Gordon. thing to happen whilst Mark O’Neil was playing after coming back from knee on a cricket field? surgery. He smashed a cut shot into our gully fielder’s forehead. The ball went in the air to a fielder at backward square who dropped the catch. Who is your favourite Nigel Owens from rugby union - a Welshman who just has the official to have or still best player management I have ever seen. is officiating in a sport (any sport)? Why? Any superstitions? Must have a large coffee on the way to the ground. Left foot on the field first. Right sock then left sock, left shoe and right shoe. Any special talents? I’m pretty good at turning a good drive into terrible iron play on the golf course. Best piece of advice? Be yourself no matter what. What got you into I tried coaching after finishing playing. I was really frustrated umpiring? at being a spectator really. Then a few phone calls from Don Dennis in Albury to help out with some school games got me addicted to umpiring. Three people you Carl Baron – to steal his jokes would love to have Kurt Fearnley – for his inspirational life dinner with? Phil Mickelson – he could afford to shout us all

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60 SECONDS WITH HARPREET SINGH

Day/night job? I am currently in my 2nd year at Macquarie university studying a degree in Bachelor of Applied Finance and a Bachelor of Commerce – Professional Accounting. I also work as an Accounting Assistant at IT Next Generation. Officiating Debut and After I joined the association in 2016, my first game I was the first time you appointed to score was a U16 Male state challenge at Raby recorded a smudge? with my scoring mentor Ian Wright, which I was really excited about.

I started scoring back in 2013 in for my high school side, and I didn’t know what a smudge was until 2017, so I cannot say for sure when I first recorded a smudge over. I’m not even sure if I have ever had one even after I was aware of what a smudge over was. Career (to date) Probably my second game scoring for Sydney Cricket Club – officiating highlight(s) it was a T20 Cup game against Mosman at Allan Border Oval. Sydney put on a pretty good total of around 180-odd within their 20 overs, even though Johan Botha bowled a spectacular spell taking 5 wickets including a hat-trick!! Botha came out to bat with their side in a little bit of a pickle and hit everything out of the middle, and he ended up scoring a century. It is probably one of the greatest performances I’ve ever witnessed by a single player to carry the team home. Best cricketer you have There have been a number of really good cricketers that I officiated? have officiated such as Morne Morkel, Johan Botha and Joe Denly. But one player that stands out the most for me is Brayden Dilley, who currently plays Fourth Grade for Sydney Uni, and used to be the opening bat for my high school side.

He is the one batsman who I can rely on to perform at the final stage of the competition. I still remember a hard fought 73 he scored in the Allan Davidson Shield Final back in 2017 in Bathurst. With our captain, VC and keeper being absent for the finals, Brayden stepped up and played one of his best innings of his life in my opinion, in both the state and comprehensive finals. Strangest (funniest) The funniest thing I have witnessed was back in 2012 when I thing to happen whilst used to play cricket for Epping YMCA. I was fielding at point on a cricket field? when the batter lofted one to long off. Our captain who was fielding at long off, was standing there eating his nails as he admires a few skate boarders passing by. The ball luckily sails over his head and lands behind him, and we all

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start laughing our heads off, as he still had no clue what had happened. Who is your favourite I grew up watching Billy Bowden umpire many international official to have or still games, and there was nearly a moment in every game he is officiating in a sport officiated in that would put a smile on my face. He is just (any sport)? Why? one of those characters that makes everyone laugh.

I still remember when he was umpiring an ODI game with Australia going up against the West Indies, and Mitchell Johnson steams in and hits the batsman on the pads. After a huge appeal, Billy Bowden just walks to short mid-wicket, has a good look at the stumps, walks back to his positions and fires the batsman a good 15-20 seconds after the appeal. I thought that was the most hilarious thing I have ever seen during an international match! Any superstitions? I don’t think I have any superstitions, or none that I am aware of at least. Any special talents? I don’t think this is a talent, but I always wanted to learn how to play a piano. So, my dad bought me a keyboard and I taught myself to play a number of theme songs of my favourite movies, such as Titanic, Jurassic Park and Lion king just to name a few from watching YouTube tutorial videos. I don’t know how to read music sheets, but I remember all the keys I have to play for all the songs I have learnt so far. Which is really surprising as I find it so difficult to remember any of my passwords! Best piece of advice? I have a couple that I have learnt throughout my time as a scorer. One, always do a linear sheet as that records the whole game and you can always count on that to find any possible mistakes.

Two, never rely on the Live Scoring app, I had many stressful times after it crashed on me, hence always stick my first advice. Lastly, this may depend on the individual but never have a nice warm beverage during a game, you will struggle to stay awake!! What got you into I never planned on scoring, however there was an umpiring? announcement one day at my school assembly asking for someone to become the scorer for the First XI. Just starting high school and hated going to class (as any student), I took the opportunity to become the scorer in the hope that I can watch some good cricket and miss a few classes here and there. After scoring a few games, I realised how much I enjoyed it, so I stuck with it and become the full-time scorer for the next 5-6 seasons while I was a student at Epping Boys High School.

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Three people you Winston Churchill would love to have Homer – author of The Iliad dinner with? Julius Caesar

60 SECONDS WITH CLAIRE POLOSAK

Day job? Umpire Educator/Female Umpire Engagement at Cricket NSW. Officiating Debut? Started umpiring in Goulburn in 2006/07. I don’t remember The first time you the first time I fired someone, however, from that game fired someone? though, I do remember my dad and brother trying to sneak in to watch the game, but I spotted them straight away! Career (to date) I’ve been very fortunate with the opportunities that I have officiating highlight(s) had. I think the highlight would be - involvement in a home T20 World Cup and being able to share the experience with friends and family. Best cricketer you have Being on-field when a world record was set by Alyssa Healy officiated? when she hit 148* against Sri Lanka was a special moment, a very talented cricketer there. Strangest (funniest) A while ago now, but it was a lower grade game near a thing to happen whilst train station. A music festival was happening in the city on a cricket field? and a group of teenagers were pre-drinking and watching the cricket before going into the city. All of a sudden, we had a streaker in the middle of the ground who did a bit of a twirl and then ran off. Who is your favourite There are too many to think of just one- but I enjoy official to have or still watching officials who are able to manage people well and is officiating in a sport communicate clearly. (any sport)? Why? Any superstitions? My lucky undies have become a mainstay now in my pre- match routine. Poached or scrambled eggs on toast for breakfast on the morning of games. Any special talents? My toes are very long- I can pick all sorts of things up with them!

Best piece of advice? Don’t be afraid of making mistakes What got you into Never played cricket, but always enjoyed and loved the umpiring? game. Introduced to a laws course when I was about 15. Three people you Both my Grandfathers (I never met them and so am would love to have counting them as one! ) dinner with? Rosalind Franklin Heath Ledger

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NEW MEMBERS

Name Suburb Name Suburb Abhijeet Wagh Kogarah Kyle Yager Goonellabah Adrian Lee Orange Kym Files Broken Hill Amit Pokharel Hurstville Lachlan Hall Kotara Andrew McKittrick Dubbo Luke Hunter Orange Andrew Storey Forest Lodge Michael Stapleton Medowie Asher Jabeer Bankstown Mobarak Hossain North St Marys Avinash Devadas Westmead Narinder Kumar Winston Hills Binit Paudel Dee Why Nicholas Moore Albury Brent Bulliman Campbelltown Nuzly Azhar Baulkham Hills Catherine Wood Lowesdale Paul McIvor Lake Munmorah Chaminda Prasad Epping Peter Buscall Baulkham Hills Chaminda Wanigasena Concord West Peter Schouten West Pennant Hills Charles Burns The Ponds Prashant Damle Colebee Christian Harvey Eagle Vale Pratichi Prajapati Seven Hills Christian Rayner Bardwell Valley Ram Tadepalli Pennant Hills Colin Coelho Port Macquarie Richard Hawker Tomingley Darshana Ranasinghe Beaumont Hills Rohan Mudigonda Parramatta Dennis Farrar Springwood Safdar Rasool Gwynneville Dinesh Harath Wentworthville Sankaranarayanan Elangovan Homebush Ganesh Ramanathan Merrylands Sharfaraz Khan Minto Ghouse Mohammad Lakemba Sidhvijay Gutthedhar North Parramatta Gordon Keefe Murrumbateman Sophia Richards Speers Point Jacob Graham Tregeagle Srinivasan Iyer Pendle Hill James Drewett Rose Bay Syed Razvi Bankstown Jared Dean Menai Tanvir Nadim Lakemba Jason Griffith Orange Tom Kiss Wellington Jessica Hankinson Fairfield West Ujjal Sarder Wallsend Kelly Baird Northmead Victor Rahman Leumeah Kesavraj Lokababu Riverstone Yogen Bhatnagar Cherrybrook

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NSWCUSA COMMITTEES & REPRESENTATIVE PANELS

Elite Panel of ICC Umpires CA Supplementary& Examination Committee Bruce Oxenford (Aus.) Umpire Panel Kevin Battishill Rodney Tucker (Aus.) Darren Close (Tas.) Andrew Coates (Chair) (Aus.) Nathan Johnstone (WA) Darren Foster Simon Lightbody Roberto Howard International Panel of ICC Troy Penman Sathish Kumar Umpires Claire Polosak Gerard Abood (Aus.) Ben Treloar Scorers’ Committee Shawn Craig (Aus.) Christine Bennison Sam Nogajski (Aus.) CNSW State Umpire Panel Merilyn Fowler Paul Wilson (Aus.) Andrew Hamilton Adrian Tham (Chair) Roberto Howard Kay Wilcoxon Development Panel of ICC Sharad Patel Ian Wright Umpires Bede Sajowitz Heath Kearns (Jersey) Social Committee Claire Polosak (Aus.) Country Umpire Bill Glacken Eloise Sheridan (Aus.) Representative Panel Michael Meehan Bruce Baxter Kedar Oza CA National Umpire Panel Ken Brooks Sharad Patel (Chair) Gerard Abood Gary Crombie Vivek Solanki Darren Close (Tas.) David Cullen Shawn Craig (Vic.) John De Lyall Greg Davidson Graeme Glazebrook Phil Gillespie (Vic.) Tony Hackett Mike Graham-Smith (Tas.) Brenton Harrison Donovan Koch (Qld.) Keiran Knight

Sam Nogajski (Tas.) Ross McKim Tony Wilds Phil Rainger Paul Wilson Neil Smith

Darren Foster oversees a trial match between Bankstown and Sydney

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NSWCUSA & Cricket NSW Match Officials Staff

Executive Officer State Umpiring Manager & Coach Troy Penman Darren Goodger

[email protected] [email protected] 0425 201 835 0425 275 795

Umpire Educator/Female Umpire Engagement Administrator Claire Polosak Bede Sajowitz

[email protected] [email protected] 0417 074 458 0427 947 000

Education Officer Ben Treloar

[email protected] 0420 822 532

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