All eyes will be on the watchers as Specsavers and New Zealand Cricket continue their quest to recognise and reward amateur cricket umpires throughout the country.
With this week's launch of the annual nationwide search for Specsavers Favourite Local Cricket Umpire, Wanganui people are encouraged to nominate volunteer umpires inthe region for the chance to reward their unsung heroes with a prize pack that includes golf with the Black Caps and one-on-one training with a top umpire.
"Umpires are a crucial driving force behind our game and Specsavers competition is a great way to put these volunteers in the spotlight and recognise their time, energy and commitment, as they're the real sporting heroes," said Devon Hotel Central Stags captain Kruger van Wyk.
Six finalist umpires will be selected from around the country and will receive $500 to put towards training and club facilities, signed Black Caps memorabilia and a voucher for two pairs of designer glasses from Specsavers, including prescription sunglasses.
From these finalists, the national winner will be selected, winning a trip for two to Auckland to attend the New Zealand Cricket Black Caps annual golf day.
The winner will also receive a trip for two to Wellington to attend the ANZ One Day International match against Sri Lanka, a one-on-one training session with a leading cricket umpire and two pairs of Specsavers glasses.
"We're looking forward to seeing the nominations come through and hope the search will continue to inspire the budding next generation to continue in the legacy of Kiwi umpire greats," said New Zealand Cricket umpire coach and former ICC Elite Panel umpire Tony Hill.
Members of the Wanganui community are encouraged to nominate a favourite local umpire by visiting the website www.specsavers.co.nz/favouriteumpire/. Entries close on January 5.
