Tony Hill has stepped down from the Elite Panel of International Cricket Council (ICC) Umpires to take up the role of New Zealand Cricket (NZC) umpire coach, the ICC announced Thursday.
The 62-year-old from Auckland was promoted to the elite panel in 2009 after serving on the international panel for 11 years.
Hill made his international debut with an ODI between New Zealand and Zimbabwe in Napier 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.
In his career, Hill umpired in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2007 and 2011, the ICC Champions Trophy 2009 and 2013, and the ICC World Twenty20 2007, 2009, 2010 and 2012. Hill's final appointment was as the third umpire in the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney.
"I have treasured my time as an umpire and more recently as an elite umpire. It has been so special officiating internationally among great players alongside the finest umpires in the world. What a privilege!"
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"This wonderful opportunity as NZC Umpire Coach enables me to continue to be part of this marvellous match official community and work with the aspiring umpires throughout New Zealand. What a challenge and one I look forward to," said Hill.
"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the ICC and feel privileged to have been part of the system at a time when umpiring transformed to what it is today."
"I would like to offer my special thanks and appreciation to my family, colleagues in the Playing Control Team and all those who I have worked with for supporting me throughout my time with the ICC," he said.
Vince van der Bijl, ICC Umpires and Referees Manager, paid tribute to Hill.
"Tony has given sterling service to the game over many years and his humour, commitment and selfless approach will be sorely missed. He loves cricket and officiating, so we are delighted that in his new role he will continue to serve the game and help New Zealand continue to produce top level umpires into the future.
"Many thanks Tony for playing such an important role in the period of transformation within the match official community and for your contribution to each of us," said van der Bijl.