Andy Pycroft Reaches 100-Test Landmark as ICC Match Referee

By DTD- On Dec 26, 2024

ISLAMABAD: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has extended its heartfelt congratulations to Andy Pycroft, marking his remarkable achievement of officiating in 100 Men’s Test matches as a Match Referee. Pycroft, a member of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, reached this milestone during the fourth Test between Australia and India in Melbourne on Thursday.

Pycroft, 68, is a former Zimbabwe national cricket captain and has had a distinguished career both as a player and an official. Since joining the ICC’s Elite Panel in 2009, he has officiated in an impressive 238 Men’s ODIs, 174 Men’s T20Is, and 21 Women’s T20Is.

Sean Easey, ICC Senior Manager – Umpires and Referees, praised Pycroft’s contributions to the sport, saying, “I would like to congratulate Andy as he passes this amazing milestone – a century of Test matches as an ICC Match Referee. As an experienced member of our Elite Panel, he steadfastly leverages his understanding of cricket to protect and improve the game. Andy is respected by players and peers alike, and we are fortunate to have him on our team.”

Reflecting on his career, Pycroft expressed his gratitude: “It has been a great honour and pleasure being on the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees over the years, and to have been afforded the opportunity to officiate all over the world, embracing different cultures. I would like to thank the ICC for its support, my fellow Match Officials, past and present, for their professionalism and friendship, and my wife, Karen, and my family, for their encouragement and tolerance. It has been a rewarding journey, and I have treasured every moment of it.”

Before his officiating career, Pycroft had a noteworthy playing career, scoring 152 runs in three Tests and 295 runs in 20 ODIs from 1983 to 1992. He also represented Zimbabwe in the ODI World Cups of 1983, 1987, and 1992.

The ICC celebrates Pycroft’s dedication and commitment to the game, acknowledging the invaluable role he plays in maintaining the integrity of international cricket.