Australian cricket umpire, Steve Davis has decided to take a permanent leave from his job after the England-New Zealand ODI series at the Riverside Ground, Chester-le-Street, on 20th June . Steve Davis was the member of the Emirates International Panel of ICC Umpires since 2002, before he was promoted to the Emirates Elite Panel of ICC Umpires in 2008.
The 63-year-old fellow, started his international umpiring career when he first officiated in an ODI between Pakistan and West Indies at Adelaide in 1992. Since then, he has umpired in 5 Tests, 135 ODIs & 26 T20Is. He officiated in his first Test in 1997 in a match between Australia & New Zealand at Hobart. A very proficient and experienced umpire, Davis has a career studded with glorious records of umpiring. He has been a part of the 2007,2011 & 2015 ICC Cricket World Cups, 2009 and 2013 ICC Champions Trophy and all the five T20 World Cups.
“It has been a difficult but considered decision. I have had a marvelous 25-year career during which I worked with some of the best umpires and match referees”, said Davis while talking about his retirement decision. He also thanked all his on-field and off-field friends and his family for their constant support and encouragement throughout his journey as an umpire. Davis also thanked Cricket Australia and the ICC for lending him the opportunities that helped him rise to such a stature.
Talking about Steve Davis, ICC General Manager (Cricket), Geoff Allardice said – “Steve will finish International cricket on a high, leaving the game with the respect of not only his umpiring colleagues, but of the match referees and players as well. He was one of the best match managers on the field, and a great team man for umpires and referees to work alongside.”
The decision regarding Davis’ replacement on the Emirates Elite Panel hasn’t been made yet and will be looked upon in the future.
