Cricket umpires are often overlooked heroes of the game, taking on immense pressure to ensure fair play. Standing in the heat for hours, they’re tasked with making split-second calls, which could change the course of a game. Here, we celebrate the 12 best umpires in cricket for 2024, as recognized by the International Cricket Council (ICC).
What Makes an ICC Elite Umpire?
The ICC Elite Panel of Umpires consists of the top cricket umpires worldwide, officiating in Test matches, ODIs, and T20 Internationals. These umpires maintain high standards and are frequently seen in international tournaments, often travelling extensively, spending long periods away from family, and handling some of the sport’s most challenging moments.
Selected by the ICC Umpires Selection Panel, the Elite Panel is reviewed annually. These umpires typically officiate around 10 Tests and 15 ODIs yearly, with some also participating in major T20 franchise tournaments like the IPL and SA20.
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The Best 12 ICC Elite Umpires of 2024
The 2024 Elite Panel consists of officials from nine Full Member nations. England leads with three umpires, followed by Australia with two. Here’s a closer look at each of the 12 elite officials and their impressive records:
| Umpire | Country | Tests | ODIs | T20Is |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Richard Kettleborough | England | 80 | 106 | 36 |
| Richard Illingworth | England | 66 | 90 | 27 |
| Michael Gough | England | 33 | 85 | 22 |
| Rod Tucker | Australia | 83 | 102 | 52 |
| Paul Reiffel | Australia | 65 | 88 | 27 |
| Nitin Menon | India | 21 | 58 | 41 |
| Chris Gaffaney | New Zealand | 51 | 86 | 43 |
| Kumar Dharmasena | Sri Lanka | 81 | 147 | 42 |
| Adrian Holdstock | South Africa | 9 | 59 | 50 |
| Sharfuddoula Saikat | Bangladesh | 10 | 61 | 43 |
| Joel Wilson | West Indies | 38 | 98 | 43 |
| Ahsan Raza | Pakistan | 11 | 53 | 74 |
These umpires represent the highest standard of officiating, with years of experience and a deep knowledge of the game.
David Shepherd Trophy: ICC Umpire of the Year Award
The prestigious David Shepherd Trophy is awarded annually by the ICC to the umpire demonstrating excellence and integrity in officiating. Named in honor of legendary English umpire David Shepherd, this award highlights umpires who have set themselves apart through skill and professionalism.
Since its inception in 2004, Australian umpire Simon Taufel has held the record with five consecutive wins (2004-2008). Other multiple award winners include Pakistan’s Aleem Dar (2009-2011) and England’s Richard Kettleborough (2013-2015). Marais Erasmus (2016-2017, 2021) from South Africa and England’s Richard Illingworth (2019, 2022-2023) have each won three times. Kumar Dharmasena also claimed the award twice, in 2012 and 2018, making him one of the most successful umpires from Sri Lanka.
Understanding the Elite and International Umpire Panels
The Elite Panel of ICC Umpires was formed in 2002, introducing independent umpires to officiate both Test matches and ODIs. This shift ensured neutrality, with both umpires in Test matches and one in ODIs from outside the host nation. This panel, a rotating group of top umpires, is pivotal in maintaining the sport’s credibility.
In addition, the International Panel of ICC Umpires consists of 44 umpires from 12 Test-playing nations. Formed in 1994, this panel includes umpires from Full Member nations, appointed to oversee ODIs and T20Is. For instance, India’s representatives on the International Panel include Jayaraman Madanagopal, Rohan Pandit, Virender Sharma, and K.N. Ananthapadmanabhan. They complement Nitin Menon, who stands on the Elite Panel, in maintaining officiating standards for international matches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the best umpire in the modern era? Simon Taufel, with five David Shepherd Trophy wins, is widely regarded as the best umpire in the modern era.
How many umpires are on the ICC’s Elite Panel in 2024? There are currently 12 umpires on the ICC’s Elite Panel.
Which country has the most umpires on the ICC Elite Panel in 2024? England leads with three umpires: Richard Kettleborough, Richard Illingworth, and Michael Gough.
Are there Elite Panel umpires officiating in the IPL? Yes, four Elite Panel umpires are officiating in the 2024 IPL, including Rod Tucker, Chris Gaffaney, Michael Gough, and Nitin Menon.
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