Local cricket umpire John Evans will reach a special milestone this weekend – weather permitting.
Evans has been appointed to officiate in his 400th Sydney Cricket Association match on Saturday in a third grade clash between Campbelltown-Camden Ghosts and Northern District at Raby 2 oval.
Only 11 umpires in the 105 year history of Sydney grade cricket have stood in more matches than Evans.
His impressive record so far has seen Evans umpire in 253 first grade matches, 32 second grade, 65 third grade, 29 fourth grade, 15 in fifth grade and 5 Shires matches.
But there’s more to his remarkable umpiring career, which followed on the back of an equally impressive playing effort as a grade cricketer.
John Evans has also officiated in:
- Two women’s ODIs between Australia and England in 2000;
- One Sheffield Shield match in 2001 as TV umpire, NSW v Tasmania at the SCG;
- One women’s national cricket league match in 2012, NSW v Western Australia;
- Four ACB Cup matches (now known as Futures League) between 1999 and 2001;
- Three representative matches involving the ECB National Academy in 2002.
“The Ghosts would like to wish John Evans all the best for Saturday and welcome him for his 400th SCA match to Raby,’’ a Campbelltown-Camden club spokesman said this week.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“As an umpire, John has gained the respect of his peers, captains, players and all stakeholders.’’[/social_quote]
John Evans is also a life member of NSW Umpires and Scorers Association, where he has been a member for 22 years.
Darren Goodger, the executive officer of the association, heaped praise on John Evans in an email to the cricket fraternity.
“This is a remarkable display of dedication from John. He has a passion for umpiring and cricket, knows and understands the game, and goes about his work with a high degree of integrity and respect for all stakeholders,’’ Mr Goodger said.
“Our association and the Sydney Cricket Association is much richer for the involvement and contribution of John Evans.
“John, there are 500+ people receiving this email, we all join together in wishing you the best for your 400th match, we thank you for your friendship and support, and offer our congratulations to you on a job well done.
“May you enjoy many more fine days in the middle, contributing positively to the sport you love.’’
