Dave Liverman was a rarity — one of the handful of people I’ve met who were influential in Canadian cricket, without having a personal agenda, an axe to grind or allegiance to a vested interest. Dave’s only concern was what was good for cricket in this country.

Like John Harris before him, Dave literally provided a forum for people who cared about Canadian cricket to share stories, find playing opportunities and openly discuss the issues of the day. He contributed to discussions in a thoughtful and constructive manner which was free from hyperbole, and he was a wise moderator when there was a loss of decorum. Dave was trusted and respected by all the various factions in Canadian cricket, who knew of his service to the game. His passing leaves a void in Canadian cricket discourse. I know I will feel it.

When he formally joined Cricket Canada as a member of the board a few years ago, I told him they were lucky to have someone of his abilities and character, but he shrugged this off with typical humility. Cricket Canada certainly valued having someone of Dave’s calibre and dedication in the fold and I hope will continue to build on the work that he did as an administrator.

Canada’s cricket community can honour Dave by following his example and always putting the interests of cricket ahead of any politicking. Those who are leaders —board and league officials, club presidents, team captains, coaches — let only your love of cricket motivate your actions in the game, as it did for Dave Liverman. Canadian cricket will be better for it.

Faraz Sarwat is Canada’s foremost cricket writer, with bylines in the Toronto Star, the Wisden Cricketers’; Almanack, ESPN Cricinfo and numerous other publications.