Women’s T20 World Cup 2024: Elite Panel of Match Officials announced

GS Lakshmi. (Source – Getty Images)

Ten umpires and three match referees will officiate the ninth edition of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 hosted by Bangladesh in the United Arab Emirates from October 3 to 20.

The experienced group of umpires comprises seasoned officials including Claire Polosak, who will be umpiring in her fifth ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, while Kim Cotton and Jacqueline Williams will each be umpiring in their fourth after taking charge of the final in Cape Town between hosts South Africa and eventual champions, Australia, last February.

Sue Redfern, who was the TV umpire for that final, is also back for her fourth appearance in the tournament. At the other end of the spectrum, Sarah Dambanevana of Zimbabwe, will make her debut appearance.

The match referees’ team features GS Lakshmi, who refereed her first T20I back in 2012 and oversaw the final in 2023. She is joined by Shandre Fritz and Michell Pereira, who are each officiating in their second ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.

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ICC Senior Manager – Umpires and Referees, Sean Easey said: “The ICC is proud to be contributing to the advancement of women in our sport. To be announcing this all-female lineup of match officials for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 is wonderful.

“This group, selected as the most deserving umpires for this event following their recent form in bilateral and other cricket, are some of the very best from around the world.

“We are confident that they will do a great job at this event. I wish them the best of luck as they oversee the world’s top women’s cricketers in what will be an exciting tournament for all involved.”

Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Officials for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

The Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees: Shandré Fritz, GS Lakshmi, Michell Pereira.

The Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Umpires: Lauren Agenbag, Kim Cotton, Sarah Dambanevana, Anna Harris, Nimali Perera, Claire Polosak, Vrinda Rathi, Sue Redfern, Eloise Sheridan, Jacquiline Williams.

Ten teams will play 23 matches over 18 days in Dubai and Sharjah for the right to call themselves 2024 champions.

The ICC supports the ongoing development of all international umpires via a clear high performance officiating programme, through the appointment of ICC Umpire Coaches, by working with Full Member Board officiating managers and coaches to align practices, by employing two full-time data and digital video specialists to help review decisions, and by conducting regular performance reviews either online or in Dubai as the officials pass through on assignment.