Well-known ND figure Basil McBurney dies

One of the best-known cricket administrators from Northern Districts, Basil McBurney died on Monday. A life member of the ND association, he was a long-serving and highly-respected selector and manager.

While he never played for ND, he played 30 matches for Waikato in minor association cricket, from his debut in March 1954 until his last match against Thames Valley in January 1962. He captained the side in 17 matches. He scored his only century for the side in his third match, 100 not out off 116 balls against Northland, who included in their ranks, Brian Child, Brian Presland and Max Joass, who all would become good friends once their playing careers were completed.

Another of his future selection partners for ND, Ian Leggat also managed to bowl McBurney for a duck in a Hawke Cup match. Once his playing days were completed he maintained his connection with Waikato cricket and, after a boundary change was instituted, with Thames Valley. From there he moved into ND duty and was a selector from 1975 until 1987, serving as convener in five of those years.

John Turkington, the chief executive of Northern Districts, said: "This is a very sad day for the Northern Districts family losing a man who had given so much to the association and to cricket. His contribution will not be forgotten"