In a historic moment, Australia’s Claire Polosak became the first woman umpire to stand in a men’s ODI (at international level) when she took to the field for the World Cricket League Division 2 final between Oman and Namibia on 27th April 2019.
Polosak was told of the news on the eve of the final, and she was elated. She said, “We go out there to umpire. Not to get a final appointment, but to be a part of a team, to be involved in the game.” “It’s really to do with the partners you work with all the way through. Right from my local association – NSW umpires and scorers – as well as parents and my partner, Evans, my husband, without whose support there’s no way I’d be here today.”
Expressing her happiness she said, “I am thrilled to be the first woman to stand in a men’s ODI and how far I have come as an umpire,” said Polosak. “It really is important to promote women umpires and there’s no reason why females can’t umpire in cricket.” She added that it is about breaking down barriers and creating awareness so that more females can come into this role.
Acknowledging their achievements, Cricket Australia’s official twitter handle wrote, “Umpires Claire Polosak and Eloise Sheridan made history today, becoming the first all-female umpiring team to officiate a professional match in Australia”
ICC’S senior manager – Umpires and Referees, Adrian Griffith congratulated Polosak and said, “It is one thoroughly deserved and a result of her hard work and perseverance. She is a role model for women who want to get into officiating, and proves how successful they can be once they are on the right path and get the opportunities.”
‘Gully’ cricket player and close observer of Indian Cricket team and it’s matches. Straight forward and still socially admirable personality. Strong belief in teamwork and possess high leadership skills.
