Landmark Achievement for Bangladeshi Umpire Sharfuddoula

In a historic milestone, Sharfuddoula Ibn Shahid Saikat of Bangladesh officiated as an on-field umpire in the opening match of the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup between the United States of America (USA) and Canada. This match marked his 50th appearance as an on-field umpire in T20 internationals, making him the first Bangladeshi umpire to achieve this feat.

Sharfuddoula has made significant contributions to international cricket umpiring, being the first Bangladeshi to officiate in 50 international T20 matches. Additionally, he holds the distinction of being the first Bangladeshi umpire to officiate 100 men's international matches, with his current tally standing at 123.

The opening match of the T20 World Cup, held at the Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium in Dallas, USA, saw Sharfuddoula create history by becoming the first Bangladeshi umpire to officiate in a men's T20 World Cup match.

Earlier this year, in March, Sharfuddoula became the first Bangladeshi umpire to join the Emirates ICC Elite Panel. His career so far includes officiating in 10 men's Test matches, 63 ODIs, and 50 T20Is, along with 13 women's ODIs and 28 women's T20Is.

In this T20 World Cup, Sharfuddoula will also play a crucial role in the high-voltage match between India and Pakistan, where he will serve as the fourth umpire. Furthermore, he will be an on-field umpire in India's match against Canada on June 15 in Florida and the TV umpire in the Pakistan-Ireland match on June 16 at the same venue.

Overall, Sharfuddoula will serve as an on-field umpire in four matches, a TV umpire in two matches, and a fourth umpire in two more matches during this World Cup, reflecting his pivotal role and recognition in the international cricket umpiring community.