Umpires Set for India-New Zealand Showdown
Dubai, UAE – The stage is set for a thrilling Champions Trophy final clash between India and New Zealand, and the International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the experienced duo of Paul Reiffel and Richard Illingworth will be the on-field umpires for the high-stakes match on Sunday, March 9th.
The highly anticipated match will be held at the Dubai International Stadium. It is a rematch of their Group A encounter earlier in the tournament, a game that saw India secure a victory with a notable spin-bowling performance, spearheaded by Varun Chakravarthy.
The ICC has revealed the full line-up of match officials. Australia's Paul Reiffel and England's Richard Illingworth, two highly regarded figures in the umpiring world, will share on-field duties. Sri Lanka's Ranjan Madugalle has been appointed as the match referee, ensuring fair play and adherence to the rules.
Reiffel, 58, brings a wealth of experience to the final, having previously served as an on-field umpire during the semi-final clash between South Africa and New Zealand in Lahore. Before transitioning to umpiring, Reiffel enjoyed a successful career as an Australian fast bowler, claiming over 200 wickets in Tests and One Day Internationals.
Illingworth, 61, the former England left-arm spinner was also part of the officiating team during India's semi-final victory against Australia in Dubai. The veteran umpire, four-time ICC Umpire of the Year, has an impressive record in previous great finals: 2023 ODI World Cup final in India and the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas. He also officiated the group-stage match between the finalists, lending a sense of familiarity to the proceedings.
Joel Wilson will take on the role of the third umpire, providing crucial support with television replays, while Kumar Dharmasena will serve as the fourth umpire.
India booked their spot in the final after a tense, low-scoring semi-final win over Australia. New Zealand, on the other hand, secured their place with a commanding 50-run victory against South Africa.
