Photo Credit: Cricket NSW
Cricket NSW has named the Country Umpire Representative Panel (CURP) for the approaching 2023-24 country cricket season.
Comprising of nine-members, the CURP consists of both new and returning members, with Dave Cullen (Greater Illawarra) cap number #44, John De Lyall (Western) #53, Jeff Egan (Riverina) #56, Graeme Glazebrook (Western) #43, Brenton Harrison (Riverina) #54, Keiran Knight (Newcastle) #55 and Phil Rainger (Newcastle) #42 retaining their positions on the panel.
Greg Jones (cap no. 39) has earned reappointment onto the CURP, following excellent performances in country cricket programs in recent seasons. Jones, an umpire hailing from the Western zone, regularly oversees first grade fixtures in the Bathurst Orange Inter District Cricket competition.
An astute umpire representing the Riverina zone, Murray Le Lievre’s elevation to the CURP sees him honoured with cap number 57. Le Lievre’s rise in regional umpiring is attributed to his consistent and precise officiating, along with his dedication to the craft. Le Lievre often travels from his hometown of Wagga Wagga to Sydney, to oversee NSW Premier Cricket first grade fixtures.
Cricket NSW Head of Competitions and Officiating, Darren Goodger, was pleased to acknowledge the pair’s achievement.
“Greg and Murray performed strongly at the Country Colts carnival played in Queanbeyan in December 2022 to earn their elevation to the Country Panel through a clearly defined umpiring pathway for country cricket match officials,” Goodger said.
“They have grabbed the opportunity presented. We offer congratulations to both and wish them the very best.”
The CURP has been selected by a committee comprising Graham Chudleigh, Keith Griffiths and Darren Goodger.
The 2023-24 Country Umpire Representative Panel:
- Dave Cullen (Greater Illawarra) #44
- John De Lyall (Western) #53
- Jeff Egan (Riverina) #56
- Graeme Glazebrook (Western) #43
- Brenton Harrison (Riverina) #54
- Greg Jones (Western) #39
- Keiran Knight (Newcastle) #55
- Murray Le Lievre (Riverina) #57
- Phil Rainger (Newcastle) #42
These umpires may be appointed to stand in Country Cricket NSW programs, Cricket NSW State Challenge carnivals, Regional T20 Bash and men’s premier cricket first grade in Sydney. There will also be an opportunity for members to be appointed to the Australian Country Cricket Championships.
Congratulations and best wishes are offered to all members on their selection. Another congratulations must go to Neil Findlay on his appointment as Country Umpire Coach for season 2023-24.
Bruce Baxter, a long-standing member of the NSW Cricket Umpires and Scorers Association, has chosen to step down from the CURP. Having dedicated his services to the panel since the 2017-18 season, his departure allows for the arrival of the new and returning CURP members.
Baxter’s contribution to the game extends back to 1973, during which time he:
- Served as either President or Secretary the South Services Cricket Club
- Served as an executive member of the Clarence River Cricket Association, including several terms as President
- Coached the South Services Cricket Club U14 team for 40+ consecutive seasons
- Been delegate to the North Coast Cricket Council
- Served as President of the Clarence River District Cricket Umpires’ Association
- Served as President of the North Coast Cricket Umpires’ and Scorers’ Association
- Been appointed on five occasions to umpire the Regional T20 Bash Men’s Final at the SCG
Darren Goodger made certain to highlight Baxter’s involvement and expressed gratitude for his valuable service to the game.
“In all his roles in cricket, Bruce has displayed outstanding values and integrity being a most humble person and selfless servant of our game as a player, administrator, coach and umpire,” Goodger said.
“The good news is Bruce will continue to be involved in cricket as an umpire, coach and administrator. We look forward to him continuing to umpire in underage Country Cricket NSW programs and CNSW State Challenge carnivals.
“It has been a pleasure to have Bruce Baxter involved as a member of the Country Umpire Representative Panel for six years. We extend our thanks to Bruce along with congratulations on a sterling contribution and very best wishes for his future involvement in cricket.”
