OVER AND OUT
Roger Wyeth will be a big loss to our Christchurch umpiring ranks
Roger has given his last decision on the cricket fields of Christchurch with his retirement and, consequently, his return to his family roots that exist in Karatane just north of Dunedin.
Roger’s education was at Otago Boys’ High School where he played in their 1st XI for two years as a batting all-rounder. On leaving school, he joined the University Cricket Club in 1969 and played at Senior Reserve level. From 1970 to 1980 he played Senior Grade cricket with the likes of Otago stalwarts Keith Campbell, Glen Turner, Ray Hutchison and Murray and Richard Webb. His sporting endeavours saw Roger take over 200 senior wickets.
Roger then moved to Karatane from Dunedin and played for that club in the East Otago competitions.
In 1990, a career promotion for his wife, Christine, saw the family move to Christchurch where he joined the St Albans CC and played 4th Grade until age caught up and he retired from playing the game in 2000.
It was his ongoing passion for the game following the end of his playing days that led Roger to the umpiring ranks and he joined the Canterbury Cricket Umpires’ and Scorers’ Association in 2003.
Following standing in the Christchurch Suburban and women’s cricket grades, he became a regular fixture in Premier men’s cricket in 2006-07 season through to the conclusion of the 2020-21 season. He stood in more than 650 matches which included club, Hawke Cup, inter-school fixtures and mid-week tournaments from Youth to Golden Oldies.
He became one of Christchurch’s most respected umpires with his maturing over the seasons to balance a knowledge of law, its application, alongside his communication skills and his growing ability to man-manage.
Roger was one of the Association’s busiest umpires and he threw himself into every aspect of his Association whether involvement on the executive or utilizing his social skills. He recalls his involvement in the role of liaison in 2014 in the World Cup qualifying tournament where he made friendships with the likes of Michael Gough and Marius Erasmus and then, again, in the 2015 World Cup itself. He hosted visiting umpires and organised day trips for them. Roger is always affable, always a “glass half full” character and always good company.
The bails have not yet been lifted for a final time as he intends to continue his umpiring career in Dunedin’s competitions.
Roger takes evasive action
Article added: Friday 30 July 2021