Rod Tucker joins Aleem Dar in elite 100-Test umpiring club

LONDON: Australian umpire Rod Tucker has joined an elite group of match officials after standing in his 100th Test match during the opening fixture of the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 series between England and New Zealand at Lord's Cricket Ground.

To mark the milestone, Tucker was presented with a crystal trophy by former ICC Test umpire Ian Gould before the start of play.

He joins an exclusive list of umpires to have officiated in 100 or more Test matches, alongside Aleem Dar (145 Tests), Steve Bucknor (128 Tests) and Rudi Koertzen (108 Tests).

ICC Chairman Jay Shah paid tribute to Tucker’s outstanding contribution to international cricket, praising his professionalism, consistency and ability to perform under pressure.

“Rod is a very respected umpire whose consistency and professionalism have earned him the respect of peers, players and fans around the world. One to always perform well and capable of ensuring the smooth conduct of matches under pressure, he has been amongst the best officials of his era,” Shah said.

“This 100-Test milestone reflects the trust cricket administrators have placed in him over the years, and his experience has been invaluable. He is an inspiration for umpires around the world and someone many turn to for guidance.

“On behalf of the ICC, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Rod on this remarkable achievement and thank him for his exceptional dedication to the game.”

Reflecting on the landmark occasion, Tucker expressed gratitude to the organisations and individuals who have supported him throughout his umpiring career.

“Cricket has always been my passion, and I feel privileged to have enjoyed such a long career as an international umpire. Standing in my 100th Test is a dream come true, and I look back on this journey with great fondness and gratitude,” Tucker said.

“I would like to thank the ICC and Cricket Australia for their unwavering support over the years. I am also grateful to the Cricket Umpires and Scorers Association of New South Wales for their encouragement during my early career.

“A special thank you goes to my colleagues on the elite panel and my family for their continuous support. I could not have reached this milestone without them, and I look forward to continuing this rewarding journey in the years ahead.”