The International Cricket Council (ICC) has unveiled the list of match officials for the semi-final clashes of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. With India, England, South Africa and New Zealand still in contention for the title, the tournament has entered its decisive phase.
All appointed officials have been selected from the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees and Umpires, comprising some of the most experienced names in international cricket.
India vs England Semi-Final: Match Officials Confirmed
India will face England in the second semi-final on March 5 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The match is scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM IST.
The ICC has appointed:
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Chris Gaffaney and Alauddin Palekar as on-field umpires
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Adrian Holdstock as the third umpire
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Paul Reiffel as the fourth umpire
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Andy Pycroft as the match referee
Chris Gaffaney previously officiated in a semi-final during the 2024 T20 World Cup, which also featured India and England. Alauddin Palekar has umpired multiple matches involving both teams in recent ICC tournaments.
South Africa vs New Zealand: First Semi-Final Officials
The first semi-final between South Africa and New Zealand will take place on March 4 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, starting at 7:00 PM IST.
For this high-stakes encounter, the ICC has named:
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Richard Illingworth and Alex Wharf as on-field umpires
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Nitin Menon as the third umpire
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Rod Tucker as the fourth umpire
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Javagal Srinath as the match referee
Richard Illingworth previously officiated in South Africa’s semi-final during the 2024 edition, while Alex Wharf has overseen New Zealand matches in recent ICC events. Indian umpire Nitin Menon has been entrusted with third umpire duties owing to his vast international experience.
Elite Panel to Oversee Crucial Clashes
With the tournament at its climax, the ICC has ensured that highly experienced officials are in charge of the semi-finals. Their decisions could play a crucial role in determining which two teams advance to the final of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
