ICC Names Match Officials for T20 WC 2026 Semi-Finals

The International Cricket Council has locked in its most experienced names from the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires for the business end of the tournament. With pressure rising and stakes at their peak, the spotlight will not only be on the players but also on those holding the whistle.

Semi-Final 1: South Africa vs New Zealand

For the first semi-final in Kolkata on March 4, Richard Illingworth and Alex Wharf will stand as on-field umpires when South Africa face New Zealand at Eden Gardens. 

Illingworth, who officiated South Africa’s semi-final two years ago, returns to a familiar stage. Wharf, too, has already overseen New Zealand earlier in this competition.

Nitin Menon will handle third-umpire duties, with Rod Tucker positioned as fourth umpire. Javagal Srinath steps in as match referee, bringing calm authority to a fixture expected to draw massive attention.

Semi-Final 2: India vs England

A day later in Mumbai, the second semi-final between India and England will unfold under the watch of Chris Gaffaney and Allahuddien Paleker. 

Gaffaney previously managed a similar knockout meeting in 2024, while Paleker has already officiated key matches in this tournament.

Adrian Holdstock will serve as third umpire, Paul Reiffel as fourth umpire, and Andy Pycroft as match referee.

With the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals poised to deliver drama, the role of the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires becomes crucial. Every decision will matter. Every call will echo across packed stands in Kolkata and Mumbai.