Sue Redfern: England umpire to make history by officiating a men's first-class match

Sue Redfern will make history by becoming the first female umpire to stand in a men's first-class match in England and Wales next week. 

Redfern will officiate the County Championship match between Glamorgan and Derbyshire at Sophia Gardens, which begins on September 26.

The 45-year-old joined the Professional Umpires Team, the ECB's group of elite officials, in 2022 and is eligible to stand in men's and women's professional matches.

 
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"When I started umpiring I had to balance other work commitments with my umpiring, but it is now a career I can solely focus on," said Redfern.

"I am proud of the steps I have taken and that I am proving that opportunities now exist in umpiring for anyone if they're willing to work hard and dedicate themselves.

"This has been an ambition of mine for a long time and, while it is a new challenge that will test me, I know that I am ready for it.

"Umpiring has become such a fulfilling part of my life and while my focus is on being the best umpire I can be, I hope my journey can also be an inspiration to others."