AHMEDABAD, India: The stage is set for the marquee clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with the governing body announcing the full list of match officials for the final between India and New Zealand. The showpiece event is scheduled to be held at Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday.
A distinguished team from the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Officials will oversee the high-voltage encounter, ensuring the game is conducted under the highest standards of officiating.
Experienced duo set to take charge in the middle as @emirates match officials confirmed for the #T20WorldCup Final 🙌
https://t.co/juiB1m6ahS— ICC (@ICC) March 6, 2026
English duo to supervise on-field action
England’s Richard Illingworth and Alex Wharf have been appointed as the on-field umpires for the final. Illingworth brings a wealth of experience to the middle, marking his second consecutive appearance in a T20 World Cup final. Having previously stood in the 2024 title match alongside Chris Gaffaney, Illingworth continues to add to his impressive resume of high-stakes assignments.
His recent history in ICC finals is particularly notable, having also officiated in the championship matches of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 and the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.
Joining him will be compatriot Alex Wharf, who earned his place in the final after a string of strong performances. Wharf, who was elevated to the Elite Panel last year, is no stranger to major tournaments. His experience includes officiating duties at both the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2022 and the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023.
The pair recently demonstrated their synergy in the middle, having worked together during New Zealand’s thrilling semi-final victory over South Africa earlier this week at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
South African officials Take Charge of DRS and logistics
Supporting the on-field pair in the decision review system will be South Africa’s Allahuddien Paleker, who has been named the third umpire. Paleker, who celebrated his elevation to the prestigious Emirates ICC Elite Panel in March 2025 alongside Alex Wharf, has been a consistent presence throughout the tournament, having officiated in six matches leading up to the final.
Fellow South African Adrian Holdstock will round out the umpiring team, serving as the fourth umpire. The playing conditions and conduct of the match will be overseen by match referee Andy Pycroft, who will manage the proceedings from Ahmedabad.
Official line-up for the final
On-field Umpires: Richard Illingworth and Alex Wharf
Third Umpire: Allahuddien Paleker
Fourth Umpire: Adrian Holdstock
Match Referee: Andy Pycroft
