Tony Hill steps down from ICC Umpires' elite panel to join NZC as Umpire Coach

New Zealand umpire Tony Hill has reportedly stepped down from the elite panel of ICC umpires in order to take up the role of New Zealand Cricket's (NZC) Umpire Coach.

Hill, who was promoted to the elite panel in 2009 after serving on the international panel for 11 years, made his international debut in March 1998, and went on to officiate in 40 Tests, 96 ODIs and 17 T20Is in a 15-year career as a top-level umpire.

According to The News, Hill, whose final appointment was as third umpire in the fifth and final Ashes Test in Sydney, said that he is privileged to have officiated among great players and umpires alike, adding that his new job will allow him to be a part of this community and work with the aspiring umpires throughout New Zealand.

Paying tribute to Hill, ICC Umpires and Referees manager Vince van der Bijl said that Hill has given sterling service to the game over many years and his humour, commitment and selfless approach will be missed, adding that they are delighted that Hill will continue to serve the game and help New Zealand to produce top level umpires in future.