Search for Auckland's top cricket umpire

They might be blind as a bat, or hopelessly one-eyed, but cricket couldn't exist without umpires.

Seeing that amateur officials are a driving force behind the game, Specsavers and NZ Cricket are looking for Auckland's - and ultimately New Zealand's favourite local cricket umpire.

International umpire Billy Bowden says: "I know first-hand the time and energy that goes into being a local cricket umpire. It's an amazing privilege to be involved with the young cricketers that are coming through the ranks. This competition is all about recognising those umpires who go the extra mile."

The competition calls for people to nominate their favourite local umpire and runs from now January 28.

Six finalists will be selected from around the country and from this group the national winner will be announced. Prizes include tickets to summer's series between the Black Caps and England, $1000 and one-on-one training with a top New Zealand umpire.

See: facebook.com/SpecsaversNewZealand, local cricket club or Specsavers stores. Entries close 28 January 2013.