ICC Congratulates Paul Reiffel on Umpiring 100 ODI Matches
Paul Reiffel reaches a milestone of 100 ODI matches as an umpire, recognized by the ICC for his significant contributions to cricket.
Dubai, November 11 (Daily Kiran) : The International Cricket Council (ICC) has extended its congratulations to Paul Reiffel for achieving a significant milestone in his umpiring career. During the third ODI match between India and New Zealand in Hamilton, Reiffel became the 23rd official to umpire 100 One Day Internationals (ODIs).
As a member of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Umpires, Reiffel is now the sixth Australian to reach this landmark, joining the ranks of former umpires such as Darryl Harper, Simon Taufel, Darrell Hair, Steve Davis, and Rod Tucker. The ICC recognized the 60-year-old Reiffel for this achievement, with Gaurav Saxena, General Manager of ICC Events and Cricket Operations, praising his journey from international cricketer to a respected umpire.
Saxena noted, “The ICC is fortunate to have such an excellent panel of umpires with deep experience and understanding of the game as both players and officials. Paul exemplifies this journey beautifully. After a successful playing career at the highest level, he transitioned to umpiring and established himself as one of the most respected figures in the sport. His 13 years in the Elite Panel reflect his consistency, professionalism, and the high standards he maintains.”
He added, “On behalf of the ICC, I congratulate Paul on achieving the significant milestone of 100 ODIs as an umpire and wish him continued success in the years to come.” Before entering umpiring, Reiffel played as a fast bowler for Australia and expressed gratitude to the ICC, Cricket Australia, and everyone who supported him throughout his career.
Reiffel stated, “I am thankful to the ICC and Cricket Australia for their support over the years. I also appreciate my colleagues in the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Umpires and Referees for their excellent cooperation and guidance throughout this journey.” He further thanked his family and friends for their unwavering support and encouragement.
Reflecting on his career, Reiffel described it as a remarkable journey, first as a cricketer and now as an umpire. He feels fortunate to have had these opportunities and looks forward to being part of many more matches and creating lasting memories.
Reiffel joined the Australian National Umpire Panel in 2005, six years after playing his last international match. In 2008, he became the first former Australian Test cricketer to be appointed to the ICC International Panel of Umpires, and he was promoted to the Elite Panel in June 2013.
His first ODI assignment came in February 2009, during a match between Australia and New Zealand in Melbourne. Since then, he has officiated in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cups in 2015, 2019, and 2023, as well as the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy tournaments in 2017 and 2025. Notably, Reiffel and Sri Lanka’s Kumar Dharmasena share a unique record as the only two officials who have played in 90 ODIs while also serving as umpires.
