Bowden returns to elite panel of umpires

Associated Press

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Billy Bowden has returned to the ICC elite panel of umpires, replacing New Zealand compatriot Tony Hill.

The ICC said in a statement on Thursday that Bowden is the only change to the list of elite umpires for the year 2014-15.

Hill stepped down from the panel earlier this year after becoming umpires coach for New Zealand Cricket.

The 12-member elite panel of umpires consists of Aleem Dar, Billy Bowden, Kumar Dharmasena, Steve Davis, Marais Erasmus, Ian Gould, Richard Illingworth, Richard Kettleborough, Nigel Llong, Bruce Oxenford, Paul Reiffel and Rod Tucker.

Bowden, known for his eccentric signaling style, has officiated in 76 test matches, 189 one-day internationals and 21 Twenty20s and has previously served on elite panel in between 2003-13.