India’s GS Lakshmi is all set to become the first woman match referee in an ICC men’s ODI. The former India cricketer will officiate the United Arab Emirates (UAE) vs the United States of America (USA) match in the third series of the World Cup League 2.
The UAE vs USA game will be the opening match of the tournament and will take place at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Sunday.
Earlier this year, Lakshmi became the first woman to be selected in the ICC International Panel of Match Referees. Along with Lakshmi, former New Zealand captain Jeff Crowe and South Africa’s Gerhardus Piennar were the other women who officiated men’s matches in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2019. Lakshmi will now be the first woman to officiate a men’s ODI.
Lakshmi is a former Indian cricketer and has represented Railways in the past. She has also played alongside the likes of former India captain Diana Edulji and Hemlata Kala, who is currently the national chief selector for the women’s team. Lakshmi was also a part of India’s squad during the tour of England in 1999 but didn’t feature in any matches.
Lakshmi who has a good experience of officiating domestic matches feels great having given the opportunity. She has earlier officiated in domestic women’s cricket in 2008-09 and was also the referee during this year’s Women’s T20 Challenge. She has now overseen a total of 3 women’s ODI matches, 16 men’s T20I and 7 women’s T20I matches.
ICC senior Manager – Umpires and Referees Adrian Griffith congratulated GS Lakshmi on her achievement.
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