MUMBAI: The International Cricket Council’s (ICC) first woman umpire Kathy Cross believes that officiating in the men’s match will not be too difficult for her.

Speaking exclusively over telephone from Wellington, where she had just finished the one-day club match between the men’s teams of Eastern Suburbs and Karori Cricket Club, she said.

“It is an honour to be selected to the ICC Associate and Affiliates Panel of international umpires. The selection will provide great opportunities and broaden experiences.”

“I am already experienced in umpiring women’s cricket and am now eligible for appointments to ICC Cricket League Divisions 3-6, in addition to women’s cricket”.

“The first opportunities for selection will be in the WCL Divisions 5 & 4, will take place in the next few months. My appointment will hopefully lead to more female officials coming through the ranks,” Kathy, 57, added.

“I don’t get disturbed or embarrassed when the male players use the tactics of sledging the opponents. My job is to ensure that the match is played in true sportsman spirit”.