Tucker Reaches ODI Century in World Cup Semi

NSWCUSA member Rod Tucker has been appointed on-field for tonight’s Men’s Cricket World Cup semi-final – in what will also be his 100^th men’s ODI.

The match in Mumbai between hosts India and New Zealand will be the second time he has been in the middle for a Men’s World Cup semi-final, having also overseen the New Zealand v South Africa semi-final in Auckland in 2015.

Tucker becomes the fifth Australian and third umpire from New South Wales to achieve the 100-match milestone in the limited overs format.

He made his men’s ODI debut in January 2009 when Australia hosted South Africa in Hobart, before becoming a member of the Elite Panel of ICC Umpires the following year.

NSW State Umpiring Manager Darren Goodger said of the milestone, “Rod is an outstanding person and umpire who has enjoyed a wonderful career. He possesses excellent people, communication and match management skills, and is one the best decision makers in world cricket.

“Rod is a principal member of the NSWCUSA and has always been a strong advocate for the Association, CNSW and NSW Premier Cricket, being grateful to all from New South Wales who supported him during his umpiring career.”

In the 50-over format, Tucker has been appointed to four Men’s Cricket World Cups and two Champions Trophy tournaments, including the 2017 edition where he umpired the Final.

In addition to his 99 men’s ODIs, Tucker has been on-field for 82 men’s tests and 52 men’s T20Is.

Before turning to umpiring, Rod played 103 first-class matches between 1987 and 1999, making his first-class debut as a cricketer in a Sheffield Shield match for New South Wales against South Australia at Adelaide Oval.

His first-class debut as an umpire in December 2004 featured the same two sides – this time at the SCG.

His on-field partner for the match will be Richard Illingworth, with Third Umpire Joel Wilson, Fourth Umpire Adrian Holdstock and Match Referee Andy Pycroft being the full match officials team.

The Australia v South Africa semi-final will be overseen by on-field umpires Richard Kettleborough and Nitin Menon with Chris Gaffaney acting as Third Umpire. Michael Gough (Fourth Umpire) and Javagal Srinath (Match Referee) complete the quintet.