Who Are the Umpires for T20 World Cup 2026 Semi-Finals? Full Details

Add as a preferred source on Google

The ICC has confirmed the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Officials for the semi-finals of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, with experienced names appointed for the two high-stakes clashes in Kolkata and Mumbai.

For the first semi-final between South Africa and New Zealand at Eden Gardens on March 4, Richard Illingworth and Alex Wharf will stand as the on-field umpires. Illingworth was in charge at the same stage two years ago when South Africa dismantled Afghanistan for 56 en route to a nine-wicket win. Wharf, meanwhile, officiated New Zealand's group-stage victory over Afghanistan in this edition.

They will be supported by Nitin Menon as third umpire and Rod Tucker as fourth umpire, while former India captain Javagal Srinath takes on the role of match referee.

The second semi-final, featuring India and England at the Wankhede Stadium on March 5, will be overseen by Chris Gaffaney and Allahuddien Paleker as on-field umpires.

Gaffaney also stood in the India-England semi-final in 2024, which India won by 68 runs, and has already officiated India's matches against South Africa and the West Indies in this tournament. Paleker has handled two of England's fixtures - against West Indies and Scotland - as well as India's win over the Netherlands.

In Mumbai, Adrian Holdstock has been appointed third umpire, with Paul Reiffel as fourth umpire. Andy Pycroft will serve as match referee.

With a place in the final at stake, the ICC has leaned on a panel stacked with big-match experience - officials who have handled knockout tension before and will now be tasked with keeping the spotlight firmly on the cricket.