Today marks a special achievement for Cricket NSW umpire Gerard Abood, who takes the field at the SCG for his 84th Sheffield Shield match, setting a new benchmark as the most capped official in the competition’s history.
Abood becomes most capped umpire in Shield history
Abood will stand in his 84th Sheffield Shield match in the Round 6 fixture between New South Wales and Queensland, surpassing Peter Parker’s long-standing record. Fittingly, he reaches this achievement at the same venue (and with the same two states) where his Shield journey began in November 2008. He will share the match with fellow NSW umpire Ben Treloar and match referee Bob Parry (Victoria).
Abood’s first Sheffield Shield match featured future Australian stars Usman Khawaja and Steve Smith and saw him officiate alongside NSWCUSA Co-Patron and Life Member Simon Taufel. Since then, he has built an exceptional career marked by consistency, professionalism, and resilience.
Elevated to the National Umpire Panel in 2009 after progressing through National Championships and Second XI cricket, Abood went on to the ICC International Panel, officiating in 13 Men’s Limited Overs Internationals between 2018 and 2021. His first-class experience also includes tour matches involving New Zealand, England, India and Pakistan, as well as appointments abroad in New Zealand, South Africa and India. In total, he has umpired 93 first-class matches, including the 2017–18 Sheffield Shield Final at Allan Border Field.
A Principal Member of NSWCUSA, Abood has also proudly officiated 10 First Grade Finals in the Belvidere Cup. His achievements have been supported every step of the way by his family, who have shared in his milestones and contributions to the game.
Gerard is widely respected by players, coaches and colleagues for his accuracy, composure, and ability to manage high-pressure match situations. His influence extends well beyond the field where he has given countless hours to the education, development and mentoring of umpires in New South Wales, generously sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation.
Cricket NSW and NSWCUSA congratulate Gerard on becoming the most capped umpire in Sheffield Shield history and thank him for his outstanding service to cricket. We wish him every success in his record-breaking match.