Thu Nov 21 18:59:15 UTC 2024: ## Australian Umpire Hospitalized After Being Hit in Face by Straight Drive
**Sydney, Australia:** A third-grade cricket umpire, Tony De Nobrega, was hospitalized after suffering a serious facial injury during a match between North Perth and Wembley District under the West Australian Suburban Turf Cricket Association (WASTCA). The incident occurred when a straight drive from a batter struck the umpire directly in the face during a match played at Charles Veryard Reserve.
While the WASTCA confirmed that De Nobrega did not suffer any broken bones and will not require surgery, he remains under medical observation. The association released a statement expressing their well wishes and hopes for a swift recovery.
This incident highlights the inherent risks faced by umpires, even at the local level. It’s a stark reminder of a similar incident in 2019 where an 80-year-old umpire, John Williams, died after being hit by a ball in Wales, and a similar fatality involving an Israeli umpire five years prior. While international umpires like Bruce Oxenford often use protective gear, this incident underscores the need for increased safety measures across all levels of the game.
First Piper 