Big Announcement: ICC Names 17 Umpires, 4 Referees for Men’s U19 World Cup 2026
The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday announced the list of match officials for the upcoming ICC Men’s Under-19 Cricket World Cup, which is set to begin on January 15 and run until February 6, 2026.
A total of 17 umpires and four match referees from the Emirates ICC International Panels of Umpires and Referees have been appointed for the marquee age-group tournament. The officiating panel reflects the ICC’s commitment to diversity and development, featuring officials from over 13 different nationalities.
Full List of Match Officials
Umpires
Ahmad Shah Durrani (Afghanistan)
Aidan Seaver (Ireland)
Cory Black (New Zealand)
Deighton Butler (West Indies)
Faisal Afridi (Pakistan)
Forster Mutizwa (Zimbabwe)
Graham Lloyd (England)
Iknow Chabi (Zimbabwe)
Lubabalo Gcuma (South Africa)
Masudur Mukul (Bangladesh)
Nitin Bathi (Netherlands)
Prageeth Rambukwella (Sri Lanka)
Russell Warren (England)
Shaun Haig (New Zealand)
Shawn Craig (Australia)
Virender Sharma (India)
Zahid Bassarath (West Indies)
Match Referees
Dean Cosker (England)
Graeme La Brooy (Sri Lanka)
Neeyamur Rahul (Bangladesh)
Prakash Bhatt (India)
Host Nations Represented in Officiating Panel
The officiating panel includes two umpires from host nation Zimbabwe, with former international cricketer Forster Mutizwa named alongside compatriot Iknow Chabi.
Their inclusion adds valuable local insight to a tournament that will be jointly hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia, with matches spread across multiple venues in both nations.
Blend of Experience and Emerging Officials
The ICC has ensured a healthy balance between experienced international officials and emerging umpires, a model that aligns with its long-term officiating development strategy.
Among the notable names in the umpiring panel is former West Indies player Deighton Butler, who has transitioned successfully into officiating after his playing career. England’s Graham Lloyd also features in the list, bringing years of experience at the international and domestic levels.
Match Referees Appointed for the Tournament
The ICC has appointed four match referees to oversee the conduct and administration of matches during the World Cup:
Dean Cosker
Prakash Bhatt
Graeme La Brooy
Neeyamur Rahul
The referees will be responsible for enforcing the ICC Code of Conduct, handling disciplinary matters, liaising with team management, and ensuring the smooth running of matches across the tournament.
Tournament Overview and Significance
The ICC Men’s Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2026 will feature 16 teams, with young cricketers from around the world aiming to make a strong impression on the global stage. The competition remains one of the most closely watched junior events in international sport, with selectors, franchises, and national boards keeping a close eye on emerging talent.
Conclusion
With the appointment of 17 umpires and four match referees, the ICC has put in place a strong and diverse officiating framework for the Men’s Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2026. As the next generation of cricketing talent prepares to compete on the world stage, these officials will play a pivotal role in upholding the spirit, fairness, and professionalism of the tournament.
Also Read: Tilak Varma Injury Scare: Surgery Recommended, T20I Series vs New Zealand at Risk
