Richard Illingworth has officiated his 100th Men’s One Day International (ODI), marking a major milestone in a distinguished umpiring career. The ICC congratulated the four-time ICC Umpire of the Year for reaching this elite benchmark during the first ODI between Ireland and the West Indies in Dublin.
Illingworth, 61, has been a member of the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires since 2013. A former England international, he has built a stellar second act as one of the world’s most respected cricket officials.
🎯 Career at a glance
- 100 ODIs officiated (as of May 2025)
- 76 Men’s Tests and 35 Men’s T20Is umpired
- Also officiated in 1 Women’s Test, 6 Women’s ODIs, and 13 Women’s T20Is
- Debuted as an international umpire in 2010 (Afghanistan vs Canada, Sharjah)
- ICC Elite Panel inductee in 2013
- Stood in three ICC Men’s Cricket World Cups (2015, 2019, 2023), including the 2023 final
- Officiated in two ICC Champions Trophy finals (2017, 2025)
- Umpired ICC World Test Championship Finals in 2021 and 2023
- ICC Umpire of the Year: 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024
ICC Chairman Jay Shah praised Illingworth’s contributions:
“Richard is a respected member of the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires who has used his experience as an international player to excel as a match official. This is a significant milestone that reflects the consistency he has shown over the years.”
🗣️ Illingworth reflects on the milestone
“It feels great to have officiated in my 100th ODI,” said Illingworth. “Umpiring at the international level is challenging, but I love every aspect of it. Cricket has been a life-long passion for me. To be able to watch the game from so close is an honour and a privilege.”
He extended his thanks to the ICC, the ECB, colleagues in the Elite Panel, and his family and friends for their support throughout his career.
🏏 A dual legacy: player and umpire
Before stepping into umpiring, Illingworth had a notable playing career. He represented England in nine Tests and 25 ODIs between 1991 and 1996. He took 19 Test wickets, including one with his first delivery in Test cricket, and 30 ODI wickets. He also played in the 1992 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup final.
With 100 ODIs now under his belt, Illingworth cements his status as one of the most accomplished figures in modern cricket officiating.
