Who are the match officials for India's WTC final?
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Synopsis
Excitement builds as the ICC unveils the official match officials for the World Test Championship final at Lord's, featuring experienced names like Javagal Srinath and Nitin Menon. With a rich history in officiating, this team promises to deliver an exceptional experience as Australia meets South Africa for the coveted title. Discover the full lineup and what it means for the future of cricket officiating!
Key Takeaways
- Javagal Srinath appointed as match referee.
- Nitin Menon to serve as fourth umpire.
- On-field umpires include Chris Gaffaney and Richard Illingworth.
- Illingworth becomes the first to officiate in all three WTC finals.
- Richard Kettleborough is the TV umpire.
New Delhi, May 23 (NationPress) Veteran Indian match referee Javagal Srinath and distinguished umpire Nitin Menon have been included among the five match officials designated by the ICC for the upcoming World Test Championship final. This prestigious event is slated to take place at Lord's from June 11-15 and will see the defending champions Australia face off against the first-time finalists South Africa.
In this role, Srinath, a former Indian fast bowler, will serve as the match referee, while Menon will take on the role of fourth umpire for the 2025 WTC final. This marks Menon’s inaugural appointment as a match official in a WTC final, following his previous experience as the TV umpire during the 2021 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final, which featured Australia and New Zealand in Dubai.
On-field umpiring duties will be fulfilled by Chris Gaffaney from New Zealand and Richard Illingworth from England. Illingworth has previously officiated in both the 2021 and 2023 WTC finals. Notably, he is also the reigning ICC Umpire of the Year, having clinched the David Shepherd Trophy for the fourth time in 2024.
Gaffaney and Illingworth previously collaborated as umpires for the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final between India and South Africa held in Barbados, as well as the 2023 WTC Final between India and Australia at The Oval. Illingworth will achieve the distinction of being the first umpire to officiate in all three World Test Championship finals.
Also joining the officiating team is England’s Richard Kettleborough, who has an extensive background officiating at major ICC events, including the Men’s Cricket World Cup and Champions Trophy. He has been appointed as the TV umpire, having previously held this position during the WTC 2021 final between India and New Zealand in Southampton.
"We are delighted to announce a proficient team of match officials for the ICC World Test Championship final at Lord’s, wrapping up a competitive two-year cycle of Test matches globally,” said ICC Chairman Jay Shah. “Our goal is to select the most qualified and deserving officials for every match, and we have confidence they will excel. On behalf of the ICC, I wish them the best and hope they enjoy this significant assignment."
Point of View
The appointment of seasoned officials like Srinath and Menon for the WTC final reflects the ICC's commitment to maintaining high standards in cricket officiating. As the sport evolves, the inclusion of experienced umpires ensures fair play and enhances the overall quality of the game, reaffirming the integrity of international cricket.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Javagal Srinath?
Javagal Srinath is a renowned Indian match referee and former international cricketer, known for his exceptional contributions to cricket officiating.
When is the WTC final scheduled?
The World Test Championship final is scheduled from June 11 to June 15 at Lord's.
What role will Nitin Menon play in the WTC final?
Nitin Menon has been appointed as the fourth umpire for the WTC final.
Which teams are competing in the WTC final?
The WTC final will feature Australia, the defending champions, facing South Africa, who are making their first appearance in the final.
What is the significance of the WTC final?
The WTC final represents the culmination of a two-year cycle of Test matches, highlighting the best teams in the format.
