History makers Claire Polask and Eloise Sheridan to officiate in Sheffield Shield for the first time
These pioneering women umpires are on the cusp of creating history as they prepare to become the inaugural females to officiate in the esteemed Sheffield Shield competition.
In a significant moment for Australian cricket, Claire Polosak and Eloise Sheridan are poised to pioneer a significant breakthrough. These trailblazing female umpires are set to make their mark by becoming the first women to officiate in the prestigious Sheffield Shield competition. Their remarkable journey to this milestone includes prior appearances in men's Marsh Cup clashes and men's BBL encounters. However, the Sheffield Shield will now witness a first, as no female umpire has previously graced its field.
Australia's Claire Polosak continues to make her indelible mark in the realm of cricket officiating. Polosak previously broke barriers as the inaugural female umpire in a men's ODI in 2019. She has served as the first female umpire in a men's Test match, assuming the role of the fourth umpire during India's tour of Australia in January 2021.
"I am very much looking forward to standing in the Sheffield Shield match at the WACA Ground. Just like players, umpires are always working towards opportunities at higher honours, and this is undoubtedly another step forward on the pathway for umpires. Thank you to Cricket Australia, Cricket NSW and the NSW Cricket Umpires' and Scorers' Association for their support," Polosak said.
Eloise Sheridan will take charge of Victoria’s and Queensland match at MCG
Eloise Sheridan will be at the MCG, presiding over Victoria's match against Queensland, accompanied by Gerard Abood, commencing on November 16. It's worth noting that Sheridan, who made her women's Test debut during the 2022 Ashes, boasts an impressive resume, having previously umpired in the Women's ODI World Cup in 2022 and the Women's T20 World Cup in 2023.
"I am excited to be making my men's first-class debut and honoured to be doing so in the same round as Claire. This is a significant moment for umpiring in Australia, and hopefully we can continue to break down barriers for those who come after us. It also provides a great opportunity for others to recognise the important role that umpires play in the game and it might inspire a few budding umpires to join the team," Sheridan said.
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