Top NZ cricket commentator loses cancer battle

Peter Sharp. Photo / TV3

New Zealand Cricket has offered its condolences to the family and friends of Peter Sharp following his passing after a battle with cancer.

In paying tribute, NZC president Dennis Currie recognised the enormous contribution Sharp made as a player, coach, administrator and broadcaster.

"Peter has been a great servant of cricket in this country, firstly as a First-Class player before forging a long and successful career as a cricket commentator," said Currie.

"He was a highly regarded administrator, being a former NZC Board member, former president of Canterbury Cricket and as a selector for the province.

"Peter was instrumental in the grassroots area of the game, establishing the modified game of Kiwi cricket in New Zealand and Canterbury Cricket as well as a doing great deal of outstanding work with coaches in the Canterbury area.

"All of us at NZC and the wider cricket community were saddened to hear of his passing and extend our sympathies to his friends and family at this sad time.

"We will always treasure the great contribution he made in many different ways to cricket in this country."

Sharp, who was 72, was perhaps best known for his work as a commentator, particularly in Canterbury.