Paul Reiffel reaches 100 ODIs as umpire, 23rd official to hit landmark
Synopsis
Paul Reiffel has joined a 23-member club in cricket history — umpires who have stood in 100 men's ODIs — completing the milestone during India vs New Zealand in Hamilton. What makes it rarer: only Reiffel and Kumar Dharmasena have both played in and umpired 90 ODIs, a double that may never be matched.
Key Takeaways
Paul Reiffel became the 23rd umpire to stand in 100 men's ODIs on 11 November 2026 , during the third ODI between India and New Zealand in Hamilton .
He is the sixth Australian to reach the milestone, joining Daryl Harper , Simon Taufel , Darrell Hair , Steve Davis , and Rod Tucker .
Reiffel has been on the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Umpires for 13 years , since June 2013 .
He has officiated at three ICC Cricket World Cups ( 2015 , 2019 , 2023 ) and two Champions Trophy editions ( 2017 , 2025 ).
Only Reiffel and Kumar Dharmasena have both played in and umpired 90 ODIs — a distinction unique in the game.
Paul Reiffel on 11 November 2026 became the 23rd official in history to stand in 100 men's One-Day Internationals as an on-field umpire, reaching the milestone during the third ODI between India and New Zealand in Hamilton. The International Cricket Council (ICC) congratulated the 60-year-old Australian, who is a member of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Umpires, on the achievement.
A Sixth Australian to Join Elite Company
Reiffel is the sixth Australian to officiate in 100 ODIs, joining a distinguished group that includes Daryl Harper, Simon Taufel, Darrell Hair, Steve Davis, and Rod Tucker. His ascent to this milestone reflects a career in officiating that has spanned more than 17 years, characterised by consistent high-level appointments across global tournaments.
From Fast Bowler to Elite Panel Stalwart
Reiffel represented Australia as a fast bowler at international level before transitioning into umpiring. He was inducted into Australia's national umpire panel in 2005, six years after his final international appearance as a player. In 2008, he became the first former Australian Test cricketer to be appointed to the ICC International Panel of Umpires, and earned promotion to the Emirates ICC Elite Panel in June 2013 — a tenure he has now sustained for 13 years.
His first ODI umpiring assignment came in February 2009, when Australia faced New Zealand in Melbourne. Since then, he has officiated at three ICC Men's Cricket World Cups — in 2015, 2019, and 2023 — as well as the 2017 and 2025 editions of the ICC Men's Champions Trophy.
What the ICC Said
Gaurav Saxena, ICC General Manager of Events and Cricket Operations, praised Reiffel's transition from player to respected official. 'The ICC is fortunate to have an esteemed panel of umpires who bring a wealth of experience and understanding of the game, both as former players and officials. Paul is a great example of that journey,' Saxena said.
Saxena added: 'Having played at the highest level of international cricket, he has successfully transitioned into umpiring and established himself as one of the most respected officials in the game. His 13 years on the Elite Panel speak volumes about his consistency, professionalism and the high standards he has maintained.'
Reiffel's Reaction
Reiffel expressed gratitude to those who had supported him throughout the journey. 'I am grateful to the ICC and Cricket Australia for their support over the years, and to my colleagues on the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Umpires and Referees for the great camaraderie and advice along the way,' he said. He also thanked his family and friends, adding: 'It has been a wonderful journey to be involved in the game at the highest level, first as a cricketer and then as an umpire, and I feel fortunate to have had these opportunities.'
A Rare Double Distinction
Reiffel and Sri Lanka's Kumar Dharmasena share a rare distinction: they are the only two officials in cricket history to have both played in and umpired 90 ODIs. The milestone underscores how a small number of elite cricketers have successfully made the demanding transition to the top of the officiating ranks. Reiffel, looking ahead, said he is eager to 'be part of many more matches and making many more memories in the years ahead.'
Point of View
But the sport could do more to profile its officiating talent — umpires shape outcomes just as much as captains do.
NationPress
11 Nov 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What milestone did Paul Reiffel achieve in cricket umpiring?
Paul Reiffel became the 23rd umpire in cricket history to stand in 100 men's ODIs, reaching the landmark during the third ODI between India and New Zealand in Hamilton on 11 November 2026. He is a member of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Umpires and has held that status for 13 years.
Which Australians have umpired 100 ODIs before Reiffel?
Reiffel is the sixth Australian to reach 100 ODIs as an umpire, joining Daryl Harper, Simon Taufel, Darrell Hair, Steve Davis, and Rod Tucker.
What is the rare distinction Reiffel shares with Kumar Dharmasena?
Paul Reiffel and Sri Lanka's Kumar Dharmasena are the only two officials in cricket history to have both played in and umpired 90 ODIs. It is a distinction that reflects excellence at the game's highest level in two entirely different roles.
When did Paul Reiffel begin his umpiring career?
Reiffel was inducted into Australia's national umpire panel in 2005, six years after his final international appearance as a player. His first ODI umpiring assignment came in February 2009, when Australia faced New Zealand in Melbourne.
Which major ICC tournaments has Paul Reiffel officiated at?
Reiffel has officiated at three ICC Men's Cricket World Cups — in 2015, 2019, and 2023 — as well as the 2017 and 2025 editions of the ICC Men's Champions Trophy.
