Top 3 umpires who played international cricket

Representing one’s country as a player is a dream for every cricketer, but only a handful continue contributing to the game at the highest level even after retirement. Some former internationals have successfully transitioned into umpiring and have taken the responsibility of officiating in the biggest matches in world cricket.

Here are three renowned ICC umpires who first made their mark as international cricketers.

1. Kumar Dharmasena (Sri Lanka)

Kumar Dharmasena is one of the rare individuals to experience the thrill of playing the ODI World Cup final and also officiating as an umpire in the summit clash. Dharmasena was a useful all-rounder during his playing days, having represented Sri Lanka in 31 Tests and 141 ODIs between 1993 and 2004.

Dharmasena was also a member of Sri Lanka's squad that lifted the 1996 Cricket World Cup. After retiring from international cricket, he took up umpiring and quickly rose through the ranks.

He stood in the finals of the 2015 ODI World Cup, the 2016 Men's T20 World Cup and the 2019 ODI World Cup, establishing himself as one of the most respected officials in modern cricket. Dharmasena has also been bestowed with the prestigious David Shepherd Trophy for ICC Umpire of the Year twice in 2012 and 2018.

2. Ian Gould (England)

Former England wicketkeeper Ian Gould had a brief international career as a player before swapping the gloves for the umpire's hat. He played 18 ODIs, scoring 155 runs for England and was also known for his safe hands behind the stumps.

After retiring, Gould became one of the ICC Elite Panel's most recognisable faces. He officiated in 99 Tests, 188 ODIs and 55 T20Is during an umpiring career that spanned more than a decade.

He also stood in several marquee ICC events, including the finals of the 2011 Cricket World Cup, before retiring from international umpiring in 2019.

3. S. Venkataraghavan (India)

Srinivasraghavan Venkataraghavan, popularly known as S. Venkataraghavan, is among the few Indians to have excelled both as a player and an umpire. Venkataraghavan was an accomplished off-spinner, having played 57 Tests and 15 ODIs for India, taking 161 wickets in total. He also captained India in five Test matches and seven ODIs.

Following his retirement, Venkataraghavan built an equally remarkable career as an ICC umpire. He officiated in 79 Tests and 78 ODIs, including the final of the 1999 Cricket World Cup between Australia and Pakistan at Lord's.