West Indies’ Jacqueline Williams Shatters Glass Ceiling as First Female Umpire in Men’s T20I – Must-Watch Moment!”
St. George’s, December 14 (IANS): Jacqueline Williams is poised to make history as the first female umpire from the West Indies to officiate in a men’s T20 International featuring two full-member teams. This milestone achievement will occur when she takes on-field duties during the second T20I clash between West Indies and England at the Grenada National Stadium on Thursday.
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The 47-year-old Jacqueline will share the field with seasoned umpire Gregory, while Leslie Reifer Jr. assumes the role of television umpire. Patrick Gustard has been designated as the fourth umpire, and Sir Richie Richardson, the former West Indies captain, serves as the Match Referee.
Jacqueline Williams
“It feels like a dream come true. Being the first is a great honor, and I hope to pave the way for others. I am truly grateful for this incredible opportunity and am committed to delivering my best on Thursday. It is evident that my career journey has led me to this moment,” Jacqueline expressed to Cricket West Indies (CWI) Media.
Jacqueline has previously officiated as an umpire in five ODIs, 21 T20Is, 33 Women’s ODIs, and 73 Women’s T20Is. She also served as an on-field umpire for the Women’s T20 World Cup final in South Africa earlier this year. In January 2020, she made history as the first woman to officiate as the third umpire in a men’s international game during the West Indies-Ireland T20I series.
“Officiating in full-member matches is a significant milestone for me. I don’t want to diminish the importance of the other international matches I’ve officiated in, as they have prepared me for this. I am fully prepared,” Jacqueline remarked.
“I hope that by having other young females witness matches and see me in the middle as an umpire, it will inspire them to engage in cricket as players and match officials. I am pleased with the progress I’ve made so far, and I will always strive to be a positive example for those who are watching,” she added.
West Indies currently lead the five-match series 1-0, following their impressive four-wicket victory in the opening contest at Kensington Oval on Tuesday night, largely attributed to an outstanding all-round performance by Andre Russell, who was named the Player of the Match.
