Cricket: Honouring the men in the middle

The search is on for Northland's favourite umpire. Photo/Supplied.

'To be or not to be' is not the question this time around, the real question is who is Northland's favourite cricket umpire?

Specsavers and New Zealand Cricket have launched a nationwide competition in search of 'Specsavers Favourite Kiwi Cricket Umpire'.

While many Northland umpires may not put their hand up for themselves, the competition is a great way to recognise those who give their time to ensure young, and old, Northlanders can take part in the game. After all, if it was not for the umpire there probably wouldn't be a game.

Kiwis' favourite summer sport officials can feel confident when making the tough calls on the pitch this season, as for the third year in a row, Specsavers has partnered with New Zealand's domestic umpires.

Black Caps player Neil Wagner said: "Cricket needs umpires and it's important that players and fans acknowledge the contribution they make to our game. This competition Specsavers is running is a great way to honour umpires' commitment to cricket."

The competition calls for people to nominate their favourite local amateur cricket umpire before January 13.

From there, six finalists will be selected from around the country and from this group the national winner will be announced.

A range of prizes are up for grabs including tickets to this summer's International ANZ Series featuring the Black Caps against India, $1000 spending money and a one-on-one training with a top New Zealand umpire.

Those who nominate someone will also be in the draw to win a voucher for two pairs of Specsavers glasses, including prescription sunglasses.

New Zealand international cricket umpire Tony Hill said: "I know first-hand the time and energy that goes into being a local cricket umpire This competition is all about recognising and rewarding those umpires who generously dedicate hours of their time, in their community; the mentors in the background inspiring and motivating our budding future cricket stars."

Communities are encouraged to nominate their favourite local umpire by visiting www.specsavers.co.nz/favouriteumpire/.