Former Sri Lanka Army Cricket Club player Nimali Perera will continue her historic umpiring journey by officiating in more domestic and international matches in the future.

She made history by becoming the first Sri Lankan female official to officiate in a men’s international match, serving as third umpire in the first T20I between Sri Lanka and England at the Pallekele Stadium, breaking new ground in what has traditionally been a male-dominated arena. She also officiated as TV umpire for the second T20I in Kandy.

Born on 13 December 1990, Perera is currently a member of the ICC Umpires Development Panel. She was among the female umpires appointed by the ICC to officiate at the 2023 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.

She later officiated in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup final in Dubai, alongside Claire Polosak, marking a milestone debut for both officials in the prestigious final. Perera also served as fourth umpire in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 final, as well as in several other high-profile ICC events, reflecting her growing stature in global officiating.

Nimali Perera brings extensive experience in international women’s cricket, having officiated in 22 Women’s ODIs and 58 Women’s T20Is, underlining her expertise at the highest levels of the game. Her continued presence on elite panels and in major matches highlights her commitment to excellence and her role as an inspiration to future generations of umpires worldwide.

Through her consistent presence at major ICC tournaments and finals, she has also helped strengthen Sri Lanka’s image in the global women’s cricketing arena, while encouraging more women to pursue careers in international cricket officiating.