400 CTPL Matches and Counting: Simon Burns' Lasting Impact on Tasmanian Cricket
Umpires
Umpires
Few people embody dedication to Tasmanian cricket quite like Simon Burns.
Having brought up his 400th Cricket Tasmania Premier League (CTPL) match during the 2024/25 season, Burns' career stands as a testament to commitment, resilience and service to the game across more than two decades.
Originally from Hobart and now residing in Launceston, Burns began his umpiring journey in 2003/04 before making his first-grade debut in 2010/11. Over the years, he has become one of Tasmania's most experienced officials, umpiring over 200 first-grade matches while also representing the state at national level.
His first appointment came in an Under 17 match at Mount Nelson Oval in 2003, where he stood with Barry Jackman at Mount Nelson Oval.
Burns' pathway into umpiring began during a challenging chapter of his life.
"Of all things, illness. In January 2003 I was diagnosed with Stage 2 Hodgkins Lymphoma, and after treatment I was unable to play again to my same capability. I had previously officiated some local hockey and enjoyed that so I thought I'd take up cricket umpiring as well."
What started as a way to stay involved in sport has evolved into an outstanding contribution to cricket in Tasmania.
A member of Cricket Tasmania's State Umpire Panel since 2019/20, Burns has officiated at six National Underage Championships, including the Under 15 National Championship Final in 2018/19. His experience has also seen him appointed to Women's Big Bash League (WBBL), Women's National Cricket League (WNCL) and Futures League fixtures.
Away from the field, Burns has also made a significant contribution to the umpiring community. He served on the Tasmanian Cricket Umpires & Scorers Association committee for eight years, including three years as President, helping support and develop the next generation of officials.
While cricket has evolved considerably throughout his career, Burns' favourite format remains unchanged.
"Anything with a red ball. Red ball cricket is the ultimate form of the game. It requires concentration, patience and technique from all participants. Batters, bowlers & umpires."
For many, officiating is about making the right decisions. For Burns, success can often be measured by something less obvious.
"Going unnoticed. It may sound weird, but I do take pleasure in going through an entire match and after the game no-one remembers who the umpires were that day. It means we've done a great job."
Among the many matches and memories accumulated throughout his career, one stands above the rest.
"It happened last season. Finally having the opportunity to stand with my nephew Sam at Cricket Australia level in the WNCL match between Tasmania & Western Australia."
Burns has also enjoyed witnessing some of the most successful periods in Tasmanian cricket history from the front row. Talking about the WNCL three-peat as a highlight in the history books for him:
"Having umpired the Tigers a lot in those 3 seasons it was excellent to see them finally win a title and then defending the title twice, barely losing a match in the process."
As someone who has spent more than 20 years officiating the game, Burns believes umpiring offers rewards that are often overlooked.
"Umpiring is so very different from the perception one would get from the media & social media. The role of the umpire is a rewarding one and is generally respected by the players."
Outside cricket, Burns works for the Department of Health and enjoys baseball and gaming in his spare time.
Having already reached the significant milestone of 400 CTPL matches, Burns' legacy extends far beyond the numbers. Through his service to the game, leadership within the umpiring community and commitment to excellence on the field, he has played an important role in Tasmanian cricket for more than two decades and continues to make a lasting impact on the sport.
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