News

On behalf of the Board and staff of Cricket Ireland we are extremely saddened to learn of the passing of our friend, Paul Reynolds.

First and foremost, we all send our condolences to Paul’s immediate family Jen, Rhys, Ieuan and Iestyn, and to father Clive and brothers Mark and David.

The following page is a collection of tributes to Paul – the tributes will grow over time as more of the Irish cricket family and beyond learn of the sad news.

Brian MacNeice, Chair of Cricket Ireland, said:

This is a truly sad day when we mourn the passing of such a beloved member of the Irish cricket family as Paul Reynolds, but the tributes so far that have emerged since the awful news show exactly why he was so well respected and held in such high regard. From an Irish cricket perspective, Paul was the consummate professional – an international umpire of the highest quality and a man who was willing to support many along the way. I know his umpiring colleagues will be hurting with the news of his passing, but Paul has left an indelible legacy that will benefit many for years to come. He has shown that Irish umpires can operate at the highest levels of the international game and I have no doubt he would have taken immense pride in those that will follow in his footsteps at that level in the future.

From a Leinster perspective, I have, of course, known Paul for many years and could only marvel at the volunteer work he did on the administrative, officiating and education side in the province. He was a man that rolled up the sleeves and put in enormous amounts of time to the benefit of others within the game. He took on several roles in Leinster cricket and each one he gave it total commitment. All done too with a humbleness that was one of his defining characteristics. He also was central to ensuring the archives of Leinster cricket are available for all to see. In so many ways his legacy will endure well beyond his time with us. “It may seem prescient now, but I am reminded of the tribute that was given to Paul back in February at the Irish Cricket Awards – a spontaneous standing ovation from those that were gathered as he walked to the stage to collect his Award. It was an occasion that will live long in the memories of those that were present.

Finally, my heartfelt condolences to Jen, Iestyn, Rhys, Ieuan, and to all Paul’s many friends and family. We have lost a great man too soon.

Warren Deutrom, Chief Executive Officer of Cricket Ireland, said:

It is with heavy heart that I write this message. It may sound a cliché, but in this case it is accurate – Paul Reynolds was a true servant to Irish cricket. Umpire, trainer, volunteer, administrator, website helpdesk, historian – but even more importantly, a great family man and friend to many.

I have known Paul for many years now, and what struck me about him was his relentlessness in helping others – whether it be on the cricket administration side or in his umpiring. I never knew him as a player, but believe he made an efficient batter-keeper, but I truly believe he came into his own after his playing days were over. “Paul’s dedication to administration in Cricket Leinster, his commitment to bettering himself year-on-year in his umpiring and his willingness to support others voluntarily was a trait I greatly admired. He will be sorely missed by many.

My condolences to his wife Jen and the three boys – I hope during such sad times you may get just a glimpse of how much Paul was held in such high esteem in the Irish cricket family.

The Irish Cricket Awards 2023

We honoured Paul at our most recent event earlier this year:

A sample of tributes from Irish cricket

We are hugely saddened to hear of the passing of our dear friend and colleague, Paul Reynolds.

No words could ever express our love and gratitude to Paul for everything he brought to cricket in Leinster and Ireland at all levels.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam pic.twitter.com/avYaay1DHG

— Cricket Leinster (@cricketleinster) October 18, 2023

All at IACUS are absolutely devastated to hear the shocking news, that are friend and esteemed colleague Paul Reynolds has passed away. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time. RIP mate.

— IACUS (@IACUS13) October 18, 2023

Everyone is heartbroken to hear that Paul Reynolds has passed away. Paul was THAT guy who did everything. The website, fixtures, committees, captain, player and everything inbetween.. but most of all he was a great friend to everyone. Our thoughts are with Jen and the boys. RIP pic.twitter.com/f2DhJvcACu

— Leinster CC Est.1852 (@LeinsterCC) October 18, 2023

We are all shocked and saddened at the untimely death of Paul Reynolds.

Paul was a hugely important figure in Leinster and Irish cricket. The contribution that he made to the game as an umpire, educator, mentor and administrator was immense. pic.twitter.com/wXNgoZaTmq

— LCU&SA (@LCUSAssoc) October 18, 2023

Watch back…

Paul was one of the panellists on the first-ever episode of the Green Ball Show back in 2020. This pilot episode features Paul talking about his background and about his umpiring career: