T20 World Cup 2026: Elite panel of match officials named for semi-finals

Richard illingworth (Photo Source: X/Twitter)

Richard Illingworth and Alex Wharf will be the on-field umpires for the first ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final between South Africa and New Zealand on March 4.

Illingworth was in the middle for South Africa’s victory at this stage two years ago, when the Proteas dismissed Afghanistan for 56 and won by nine wickets, while Wharf oversaw New Zealand’s win over the same opposition in the group stage this time around.

The pair will be joined in Kolkata by Nitin Menon as third umpire, with Rod Tucker in place as fourth umpire and Javagal Srinath appointed as match referee.

The second semi-final between India and England, in Mumbai, will be overseen by on-field umpires Chris Gaffaney and Allahuddien Paleker.

The two nations met at the same stage in 2024, a match India won by 68 runs, with Gaffaney also in place for that one. In this competition so far, he has been in the middle for India’s matches against South Africa and the West Indies.

Paleker has taken control of two England matches, against the West Indies and Scotland, as well as India’s victory over the Netherlands.

Adrian Holdstock will be the third umpire in Mumbai, with Paul Reiffel the fourth umpire. Andy Pycroft is the match referee.

Semi-Final 1: South Africa v New Zealand

• On-Field Umpires: Richard Illingworth & Alex Wharf
• Third Umpire: Nitin Menon
• Fourth Umpire: Rod Tucker
• Match Referee: Javagal Srinath

Semi-Final 2: India v England

• On-Field Umpires: Chris Gaffaney & Allahuddien Paleker
• Third Umpire: Adrian Holdstock
• Fourth Umpire: Paul Reiffel
• Match Referee: Andy Pycroft

Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.