New Zealand cricket umpire Billy Bowden signals a six. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Billy Bowden will become the first New Zealand cricket umpire to stand in 200 first-class matches this weekend.
The 85-Test umpire will reach the milestone in this weekend's Plunket Shield match between Auckland and Northern Districts at Eden Parks outer oval, 30 years on from making his first-class umpiring debut in the Shell Trophy fixture between the two-sides at Eden Park in 1993.
Known for his eccentric umpiring signals, Bowden has gone on to become one of the most recognisable umpires in world cricket.
He made his international umpiring debut in an ODI between New Zealand and Sri Lanka at Seddon Park in 1995 and made his Test debut at Eden Park in 2000 in the Test between the Black Caps and Australia.
Bowden went on to stand in 85 Test matches, 221 ODIs and 48 T20Is (men's and women's).
He officiated in four ODI World Cups, two T20 World Cups and stood in the famous 2005 Ashes series in England, dubbed the greatest Ashes series of all-time.
Alongside his international feats, Bowden has continued to be a mainstay in New Zealand's domestic competitions, standing in 377 List-A matches and 209 T20s to add to his first-class appointments.
Bowden is well known for his quirky singals and gestures.
The Auckland-born umpire said he was immensely proud to reach the milestone and represent New Zealand cricket over the last 30 years.
"To be involved in 200 first-class games is pretty special," he said.
Cricket umpire Billy Bowden signals a boundary. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
"When I started out I just wanted to challenge myself and be the best umpire every day and enjoy the journey.
"Being a former player myself I just wanted to embrace the cricket, try and make a difference and enjoy being involved in what is the best game in the world.
"There's been many highlights, the 2005 Ashes series being one that really stands out.
"But covering the domestic finals here in New Zealand, the 50-over finals and the Super Smash and being able to contribute to cricket in New Zealand is really a privilege.
Bowden admitted a lot had changed in umpiring over his 30-year career so far.
"A lot has changed, not the least the clothing!
"But the challenges remain the same, it's still bat and ball, you still take one ball at a time and you give it how you see it.
"Technology has moved quickly over the years and has brought its own challenges to umpiring, but that is the beauty of the sport, embracing the challenge and improving every day and trying to get better, not bitter!"
-RNZ
