Doug Cowie appointed as ICC Umpires and Referees Manager

The International Cricket Council (ICC) today announced the appointment of Doug Cowie as its new Umpires and Referees Manager.

Doug, a former member of the Emirates International Panel of ICC Umpires, will take over responsibility for the support, training and development of international cricket's top umpires.

ICC General Manager - Cricket, David Richardson, said that Doug had demonstrated the right blend of skills and experience for the important role.

"Doug has an exceptional track record on and off the field and is well respected throughout the international cricket community," said Mr Richardson.

"Just like players, it is important that umpires receive the best available support. Doug has demonstrated the credentials to undertake this crucial role and we look forward to welcoming him to Dubai."

Doug was a member of the Emirates International Panel of ICC Umpires from 1998 to 2005 in which time he was an on-field umpire in 22 Test matches and 71 ODIs.

He has balanced two decades as a first-class umpire in New Zealand with a successful business career and will begin his role at the ICC on 4 March 2006.