How heartbreak brought hope
When Brent “Billy” Bowden stood at his mailbox, ominously eyeing up the letter he’d received from New Zealand Cricket, only one thought crossed his mind: “What have I done wrong now?”
But the affable Kiwi umpire – best known for his crooked finger – needn’t have worried.
The letter announced New Zealand Cricket was appointing him an honorary member, in recognition of outstanding service to cricket, alongside the likes of former players Lance Cairns, Shane Bond, Ann McKenna, Bev Brentnall, Ewen Chatfield and John Reid.
“It was such a shock and a tremendous thrill, because, believe it or not, I’ve had quite a few letters from them in my time
