The Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Officials has been confirmed for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 final between India and New Zealand. The high-voltage clash will take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. England’s Richard Illingworth and Alex Wharf have been appointed as the on-field umpires for the title decider.
Richard Illingworth's career
For Illingworth, this will be his second straight T20 World Cup final as an on-field umpire. He also officiated in the final of the 2024 edition alongside Chris Gaffaney. According to the ICC website, Illingworth has been part of several major ICC finals in recent years. He stood in the finals of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 and the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 as well.
Alex Wharf's experience
Alex Wharf also brings strong experience from international tournaments. He previously officiated in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in 2022 and the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2023. Last year, he was included in the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Umpires.
Interestingly, Illingworth and Wharf were also the on-field umpires during New Zealand’s impressive semi-final win over South Africa earlier this week at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
Who will be third umpire between India and New Zealand
South Africa’s Allahuddien Paleker will take on the role of third umpire for the final. The 48-year-old joined the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Umpires in March 2025 along with Wharf and has already officiated in six matches during the tournament.
Another South African official, Adrian Holdstock, will be the fourth umpire for the final. Meanwhile, Andy Pycroft has been appointed as the match referee for the title clash in Ahmedabad.
ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 Final - India v New Zealand
On-field Umpires: Richard Illingworth and Alex Wharf
Third Umpire: Allahuddien Paleker
India vs New Zealand squads