ICC announced the Emirates Elite Panel match officials for the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals, with Richard Illingworth and Alex Wharf set to umpire South Africa vs New Zealand in Kolkata on March 4.
The ICC confirmed the Emirates Elite Panel officials for the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals in Kolkata and Mumbai. Richard Illingworth and Alex Wharf will serve as on-field umpires for the first semi-final between South Africa and New Zealand on Wednesday, March 4, at Eden Gardens.
Illingworth officiated South Africa’s semi-final 2 years ago against Afghanistan. Wharf handled New Zealand’s group-stage match against the same team in 2026. Nitin Menon will act as the third umpire in Kolkata. Rod Tucker will take the role of fourth umpire. Javagal Srinath will oversee the game as match referee.
For the second semi-final on March 5 in Mumbai, Chris Gaffaney and Allahuddien Paleker will stand as on-field umpires. Gaffaney officiated at the same stage in the 2024 edition. Paleker handled 2 England matches and India’s win over the Netherlands in this tournament. Adrian Holdstock, Paul Reiffel and Andy Pycroft complete the officiating team.
| Match | Venue | Date | On-Field Umpires | Third Umpire | Fourth Umpire | Match Referee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-Final 1: South Africa vs New Zealand | Kolkata | Wednesday, 4 March 2026 | Richard Illingworth, Alex Wharf | Nitin Menon | Rod Tucker | Javagal Srinath |
| Semi-Final 2: India vs England | Mumbai | Thursday, 5 March 2026 | Chris Gaffaney, Allahuddien Paleker | Adrian Holdstock | Paul Reiffel | Andy Pycroft |
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