Cricket Australia (CA) Contracted Umpire Panel member Mitch Claydon has made his First-Class umpiring debut in the Sheffield Shield match between Tasmania and South Australia at Bellerive Oval in Hobart.
Claydon’s journey to the elite umpiring ranks is a testament to his lifelong dedication to the game. A former First-Class cricketer, Mitch played 113 matches across Yorkshire, Durham, Kent, and Sussex County Cricket Clubs, along with 110 List-A matches. He also spent several seasons in NSW Premier Cricket representing Campbelltown-Camden Cricket Club.
Following his playing career, Claydon transitioned into coaching, joining the Sydney Sixers’ BBL coaching staff before turning his focus to umpiring in the 2019–20 season. His officiating career has followed Cricket Australia’s established umpiring pathway, including appointments to the Under 15 and Under 17 Male National Championships.
In the 2023–24 season, Claydon was named to the Cricket New South Wales State & Territory Umpire Panel, where he officiated in the Under 19 Male National Championships in Albury and stood in the Final. He repeated this achievement the following season in Adelaide. His domestic umpiring experience includes the WBBL, WNCL, T20 Spring Challenge, and State Second XI competitions.
Earlier this year, Claydon was appointed to the Cricket Australia Contracted Umpire Panel and made his List-A debut in the One Day Cup match between New South Wales and Tasmania at Cricket Central. He also officiated in the Youth ODI series between India’s Under 19s and Australia in Brisbane.
With his debut in the Sheffield Shield, Mitch Claydon becomes the 89th First-Class umpire from New South Wales.
Luke O’Brien, Cricket Australia’s Match Officials Manager, shared his thoughts: “Mitch’s progression through the umpiring ranks has been impressive and well-earned. His experience as a player and coach brings a valuable perspective to the role, and we’re thrilled to see him take this next step in his officiating career.”
“Cricket NSW should be applauded and thanked for their hard work and support they have shown Mitch. He couldn’t have got to this point without them”.
Standing on-field with Claydon is fellow Cricket Australia Contracted Umpire Panel member Gerard Abood. National Match Referee Panel member David Johnston is overseeing proceedings as the appointed match referee.