After a playing career spent mostly at Killyclooney, Graham started umpiring in 2011.

He quickly rose through the ranks locally and was appointed to the Interprovincial panel at the end of 2013, having passed his exams up to International level.

Graham hasn't let the grass grow under his feet and took on the role of Chair of NWU&SA in 2018, succeeding Roly Black.

He is also one of Ireland's two representatives on the Match Referee Panel and was able to job-shadow Jeff Crowe during 2019's internationals at Bready.

Graham McCrea in his role as Match Referee

He still enjoys his umpiring though and is hopeful of better things on the cricket front this year.

"The roles can be time consuming but I'm definitely looking forward to getting back out on a Saturday again as long as I can get clearance from the War Office," he smiled.