Tim Parlane has become just the ninth New Zealand umpire to stand in 100 First-Class matches. The milestone was reached when he walked out onto the Basin Reserve where Plunket Shield leaders the Wellington Firebirds are hosting the Auckland Aces.
Originally a sharemilker from Northland, Parlane made his umpiring debut in the 2003-04 season standing in the then ‘State Championship’ match between Otago and Auckland at University Oval in Dunedin. Since then he has completed 16 consecutive seasons of First-Class umpiring.
“I never thought it would be a job and it’s turned into basically a full-time job,” he says.
Parlane is grateful for the support he has received from others in the close-knit umpiring community and his family, whom he acknowledges have made sacrifices for his umpiring commitments.
“It’s very supportive at home with my wife. I couldn’t have done this without her and the kids helping me out as well. When I first started I left her at home with 300 cows to milk!”
Even after 16 years umpiring around New Zealand, as well as First-Class matches in South Africa, England and Australia, Parlane has no plans to hang up the ball-counter just yet.
“I suppose at some stage stumps are going to have to be pulled. I still enjoy it and I think I’m still doing a pretty good job, so I’ll just keep on going.”
When reflecting on his favourite moments over the years, Parlane acknowledged the Basin Reserve holds fond memories.
“I enjoy the Basin, so I’m happy to go back there and do my 100th.”
NZC wishes to congratulate Tim Parlane on his magnificent achievement of umpiring 100 First-Class matches and we wish him well for his future umpiring appointments.
The nine New Zealand First-Class umpiring centurions are:
Billy Bowden 180* not out
Evan Watkin 135
Dave Quested 116
Steve Dunne 112
Doug Cowie 112
Tony Hill 103
Fred Goodall 102
Barry Frost 102
Tim Parlane 100* not out
