Published: Aug 15, 2014, 04:21 PM (IST)
Edited: Aug 15, 2014, 04:21 PM (IST)
Aug 15, 2014
Former Sri Lankan skipper Ranjan Madugalle became the first match referee to stand in as many as 150 Test matches after officiating in the fifth and final Test between India and England at The Oval.
According to an ICC Press release, Madugalle said, “It is a huge honour for me to reach this landmark in my career and I am extremely proud and privileged to be the first person to do so. It is impossible for me to select a highlight from that time, if I’m honest, because I have had many happy memories. I have approached every series and every Test match in the exact same manner and I have learned a lot working across the world over the years.”
Madugalle continued, saying, “Without strong support bases in your personal life, it would not be possible to fulfil your ambitions professionally and I would like to thank my family, friends and the match officials community for their support. I would also like to thank the ICC for its encouragement over the years.”
He went on to talk about how prospects have improved for former players. “There was a time when it seemed that the only avenue for past players to stay involved in the game was in the media. But it is wonderful to see so many opportunities nowadays in terms of areas such as coaching, management and officiating.”
He concluded by saying, “The game of cricket has given me an enormous amount – both as a player and in later years as a match official – and I feel especially lucky to have worked across the transition from amateurism to professionalism with some incredible players, officials and administrators in that time.”
ICC Senior Umpires & Referees Manager, Vince Van Der Bijl, paid tribute to Madugalle, saying, “Ranjan is a consummate professional match referee and deeply respected by all involved in the game. His energy levels, enjoyment, match preparation, attention to detail and dedicated service to cricket remain as high now after 150 officiated Tests as ever. The global match official community salutes you, Ranjan, on your 150th Test — enjoy.”
