At Khettarama (Colombo), Ranjan Madugalle officiated the third One-Day International (ODI) between India and Sri Lanka, making history as the first match referee to officiate 400 series. Since 1993, Madugalle has officiated more than 200 Test matches, setting a record in the process. He had additionally worked as the head match referee for the ICC.
Simon Taufel, a former elite panel umpire and the ICC’s manager of umpire performance and training extended laurels about his fellow mate. “Ranjan’s longevity is remarkable,” Taufel said. “He was there at the beginning of my international umpiring career and the end. He has served Sri Lanka, the ICC, and the game of cricket with distinction and integrity. This milestone highlights his commitment and dedication to the sport he loves.”
Madugalle described reaching this milestone as “dreamlike” in an ICC statement. Madugalle described reaching this milestone as “dreamlike” in an ICC statement. “Officiating in international cricket for so long has been a huge honour and privilege, and attaining this milestone feels almost surreal.
“I was happy to have the chance to be involved with the sport after playing cricket, but I never imagined that it would go for more than thirty years! I have had the opportunity to officiate in multiple World Cups and around the world during this time, and I have loved every minute of it.
“I would want to take this occasion to express my gratitude to Sri Lanka Cricket, the International Cricket Council, and my colleagues for their support and friendship, as well as my family and friends, without whose support it would not have been possible to have come this far.
Madugalle was a batter for Sri Lanka and featured in 21 Tests and 63 ODIs before focusing on overseeing matches.
