ICC Elite Panel of Umpires For 2025-26: Nitin Menon Lone Indian; Two New Entrants Replace Joel Wilson & Michael Gough

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires for the 2025-26 cycle, featuring Nitin Menon as the only Indian, while Michael Gough and Joel Wilson made way for two new entrants.

The experienced duo of Gough of England and Wilson of West Indies will make way for the two new entrants in Allahudien Paleker of South Africa and England's Alex Wharf, as per the ICC.

Paleker, a former first-class cricketer from South Africa, has officiated on-field in four Tests, 23 ODIs and 67 T20Is in men's international cricket and a total of 17 women's international games - having also officiated at major ICC tournaments such as men's T20 World Cup 2024, and the Under-19 men's Cricket World Cup 2024.

Wharf brings a wealth of experience from his 16-year first-class career, having also featured in 13 ODIs for England. Wharf has officiated on-field in seven Tests, 33 ODIs, and 45 T20Is in men's international cricket, and has stood at the recent ICC men's and women's World Cups, the respective men's and women's T20 World Cups in 2024 and the men's Champions Trophy in 2025.

ICC chairman Jay Shah welcomed Paleker and Wharf with warm wishes as the two new entrants, while he also thanked the outgoing umpires, Gough and Wilson for their services.

"By definition, being an elite official brings with it scrutiny and pressure, but we are confident that both Allahuddien and Alex possess the temperament, experience and skill to deliver consistently at this very top level," Shah said in a statement.

"On behalf of the ICC, I wish them all the best for the upcoming season as well as for the future. We would also like to place on record our sincere thanks to both Joel and Michael for their services to the world game, over a number of years."

Palekar expressed his gratitude for the promotion and acknowledged the support of his mentors, colleagues, and family. "This is a significant moment in my umpiring career. It's an honour to be named in the elite panel, and I look forward to reposing the faith shown in me.

"Being on this panel brings both pride and responsibility, but I am confident that my experience officiating across formats will stand me in good stead," he said. "I would like to take this opportunity to thank my family, friends, coaches, mentors, the ICC, and Cricket South Africa for backing me and all my colleagues who supported me over the years.

"To my father, Jamalodien, who was also an umpire. He is my inspiration and role model, his teachings have brought me to this stage. Lastly, to my wife Shakira, you have been through this incredible journey with me. I want to thank you for all the sacrifices, support, and patience you've shown; you have been my pillar of strength."

Wharf acknowledged the guidance and support he has received throughout his career. "I want to express my heartfelt thanks to the ICC and ECB for the opportunities they've provided over the years. I am truly appreciative of their guidance and constant support," he noted.

"This milestone would not have been possible without the amazing colleagues who have shared their expertise with me and those who have supported me both on and off the field. I look forward to continuing to learn from and work alongside them as I embark on this exciting new chapter in my career."