Former New Zealand umpire David Quested passes away at 78

Former New Zealand umpire David Quested passed away in Christchurch at the age of 78. Quested's contribution to the sport spanned over three decades.

Quested's umpiring career was decent, officiating in five Test matches and 49 One Day Internationals (ODIs). He also officiated in 77 First-Class matches and 80 List-A games. Quested was involved across various formats, including Women's ODIs and T20s.

The New Zealand Cricket Board announced the disheartening news of the umpire's demise and also extended their support to his family and close ones at this moment.

"We're deeply saddened to advise former NZ umpire David Quested, who stood in five tests and 49 ODIs, has died in Christchurch, aged 78. Our thoughts are with his family and friends," NZC wrote on X.

Also read: Former England cricketer Graham Thorpe passes away at 55

I don't think it's necessary at all: David Quested about the red card system in cricket

The former was known for his sharp eye and ability to make tough decisions under pressure. One such instance occurred on March 18, 2001, in the second Test match between New Zealand and Pakistan at Christchurch when he called a no-ball for the third bouncer in an over bowled by Craig McMillan during a Test match. 

In the same Test match, one of the press photographers gave him a leg up to look for a ball hit by Saqlain Mushtaq.In 2017, when the Marylebone Cricket Club announced introducing a red card punishment system in cricket, Quested quickly expressed his disapproval.

"I don't think it's necessary at all. The ICC put in a code of conduct and most countries around the world follow that in their domestic cricket. The players association won't agree to stuff like that and it's totally unnecessary. You don't need it at lower levels because you already have systems in place," he told the Devlin Radio Show.