Ahead of one of cricket’s biggest ever summers, New Zealand Cricket have made some changes in relation to Domestic Match Referees. After missing last season, Match Referees have been reintroduced.
A Match Referee plays an important role in making sure games flow with as few problems as possible. They are New Zealand Cricket’s representative at grounds, ensuring regulations and policies are in place. They make sure the correct procedures are followed and that venues also comply with New Zealand Cricket’s Ground and Facilities WOF.
This season’s Match Referees are:
Ross Dykes – Auckland – Ross Dykes has a wealth of experience across all levels of the game. His high level roles in cricket have included being a New Zealand selector and CEO of Otago Cricket.
Pat Malcon – Hamilton – Pat Malcon is a long time servant of Northern Districts. He’s held a number of roles at the association including as a selector, operations manager and director of cricket.
Kevin Earl – Mt Maunganui – Kevin Earl comes from a strong umpiring background including time as Northern Districts Umpiring Manager.
Kevin Pulley – Wellington – Kevin Pulley has extensive experience in sport and has managed a number of national age group sides.
Richard Hayward – Nelson – Richard has been involved at a high level of the game from both a playing and administration perspective in both the United Kingdom and New Zealand.
Gary Baxter – Christchurch – Gary Baxter is a former international umpire who also has extensive experience at domestic level.
George Morris – Dunedin – George Morris is the current Chairman of the NZ Cricket Umpires and Scores Association and has previously acted as a Match Referee in New Zealand. He has wide experience in roles with both cricket and rugby.
The referees will be appointed to WHITE FERNS internationals, Plunket Shield, Ford Trophy and Super Smash matches as well as visiting team warm up matches.
