Four Indians selected for ICC’s all-women match officials panel at Women’s T20 World Cup.
Dubai, The ICC has released a list of 18 female officials, including four Indian umpires and match referee GS Lakshmi, to officiate in the Women’s T20 World Cup starting June 12 in England and Wales. This will be the third consecutive edition where the officials’ panel consists entirely of women. Candace La Board, Gayathri Venugopalan, Keren Klaaste, and Shathira Zakir Jessi will participate in this tournament for the first time.
The umpires’ list includes two other Indians, Vrinda Rathi and Janani N. The International Cricket Council (ICC) Chief Executive Officer said in a statement, “This panel of match officials for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 reflects the ICC’s commitment to increasing representation in all aspects of the sport.” He further added that the ICC assesses its match officials and their decision-making performance in a comprehensive, holistic, and evidence-based manner. During the 33 matches of this World Cup, 14 umpires and four match referees will work, including nine members of the 2024 edition’s team.
Australia’s Claire Polosak is the most experienced, participating in the tournament for the sixth time and having officiated in 22 matches previously. Jacqueline Williams and Kim Cotton have each officiated in 19 matches so far, and both will set a record by appearing in their fifth T20 World Cup in England and Wales.
Three match referees, Shandre Fritz, GS Lakshmi, and Michelle Pereira, were also part of the 2024 edition. New Zealand’s Trudy Anderson has been added as the fourth referee. The Indian women’s team will begin their World Cup campaign against Pakistan on June 14.
The list of match officials is as follows:
Umpires: Lauren Agenbag, Kim Cotton, Anna Harris, Shathira Zakir Jessi, Keren Klaaste, Candace La Board, Janani N, Nimali Perera, Claire Polosak, Vrinda Rathi, Sue Redfern, Eloise Sheridan, Jacqueline Williams, Gayathri Venugopalan. Match Referees: Trudy Anderson, Shandre Fritz, GS Lakshmi, Michelle Pereira.
England
England is a country that forms part of the United Kingdom, with a rich history dating back to the early medieval period. It was unified in the 10th century and has since played a pivotal role in global events, including the Industrial Revolution and the establishment of the British Empire. Today, England is known for its iconic landmarks, such as Stonehenge, the Tower of London, and its influential contributions to literature, law, and democracy.
Wales
Wales is a country in the United Kingdom known for its rugged coastline, mountainous national parks, and distinct Celtic culture, including the Welsh language. Its history dates back to Roman occupation and the post-Roman era of Welsh kingdoms, later marked by conflict with England and eventual annexation under the Laws in Wales Acts of 1535 and 1542. Today, Wales retains a strong cultural identity, with landmarks like medieval castles and a vibrant tradition of music and poetry.
Dubai
Dubai is a major city and emirate in the United Arab Emirates, known
England
England is a country that forms part of the United Kingdom, known for its rich history spanning thousands of years, from ancient Celtic tribes and Roman occupation to the medieval period and the British Empire. It is home to iconic landmarks such as Stonehenge, the Tower of London, and the city of Bath’s Roman baths. Culturally, England has profoundly influenced the world through the English language, Shakespeare’s literature, and the Industrial Revolution.
Wales
Wales is a country in the southwest of Great Britain, known for its rugged coastline, mountainous national parks, and distinct Celtic culture. Its history dates back thousands of years, with evidence of Iron Age hill forts and Roman occupation, and it was later conquered by England in the 13th century. Today, Wales retains its own language and strong national identity, with a devolved government and a rich tradition of music and poetry.
Dubai
Dubai is a major city and emirate in the United Arab Emirates, known for its rapid transformation from a small fishing and pearl-diving village in the 18th century to a global hub for tourism, business, and luxury. Its modern development accelerated after the discovery of oil in the 1960s, but the city has since diversified its economy, becoming famous for iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and artificial islands. Today, Dubai is celebrated for its futuristic architecture, vibrant culture, and status as a crossroads of the world.
Stonehenge
Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument in Wiltshire, England, consisting of a ring of massive standing stones, each around 13 feet high and weighing about 25 tons. Built between 3000 and 2000 BCE, its exact purpose remains debated, but it is believed to have been used for astronomical observation, religious ceremonies, or as a burial site. This UNESCO World Heritage Site remains one of the most iconic and mysterious landmarks in the world.
Tower of London
The Tower of London is a historic castle on the north bank of the River Thames in central London, founded by William the Conqueror in 1066. Over the centuries, it has served as a royal palace, prison, armory, and treasury, famously housing the Crown Jewels. It is also known for its grim history as a site of executions and imprisonment, including figures like Anne Boleyn and Guy Fawkes.
