SL vs IND 2024: Sri Lanka's Ranjan Madugalle becomes first match referee to officiate 400 ODIs

Sri Lanka’s Ranjan Madugalle has become the first match referee to oversee 400 One Day Internationals (ODIs). This feat was achieved during the third ODI between India and Sri Lanka at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on August 7, 2024. India and Sri Lanka faced off in the final game, with the hosts leading 1-0.

Madugalle's journey as a match referee began in 1993, marking an impressive three-decade-long career in cricket administration.

His expertise is not only in ODIs he has also officiated in over 200 Test matches another record in his illustrious career. On behalf of the ICC, Sri Lanka Cricket CEO Ashley de Silva gave a plaque to celebrate this incredible achievement.

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Ranjan's longevity is remarkable: Simon Taufel

Before his role as a referee, Madugalle represented Sri Lanka as a player in 21 Tests and 63 ODIs, bringing a wealth of on-field experience to his officiating duties. Simon Taufel, a respected former elite panel umpire, praised Madugalle's longevity and integrity.

"Ranjan's longevity is remarkable. He was there at the beginning of my international umpiring career and the end. He has served Sri Lanka, the ICC and game of cricket with distinction and integrity. This milestone highlights his commitment and dedication to the sport he loves. I wish him and the umpires a successful match," Taufel said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

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Madugalle's career includes overseeing all ICC Cricket World Cups from 1996 to 2019, including three finals. The 65-year-old leads an impressive list of match referees, followed by notable names such as Chris Broad, Jeff Crowe, and Javagal Srinath.