The road to the top of age-group cricket has reached its final stage International Cricket Council (ICC) Match officials officially confirmed for the high-stakes semi-finals of the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026. With four of the world’s most promising youth teams remaining in the hunt for coveted silverware, the Emirates ICC International Panel of Umpires and Referees has been carefully selected to oversee these important fixtures. zimbabwe.
The tournament has been a masterclass for emerging talent, and as the pressure increases, the ICC has relied on a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars on its international panel to ensure the highest standards of umpiring. These appointments have come at a time when the margin for error is minimal and the eyes of the cricket world are fixed on Bulawayo and Harare.
Semi-final fixtures: Undefeated Titans and Asian giants
The first semi-final, scheduled for 3 February 2026At the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, a heavyweight bout takes place between Australia And England. Both sides have maintained a blemish-free record throughout the competition, making it an unofficial “final before the final”. Australia continues to lead Nitesh Samuel and captain oliver peakHas demonstrated clinical efficacy. Meanwhile, England has been driven by abundance ben mayesWhose batting exploits have made them the team to beat.
The action then shifts to Harare Sports Club 4 February 2026For an interesting pan-Asian showdown between the defending champions India and a flexible afghanistan. India secured its place with a hard-fought victory over its arch-rivals Pakistanhas maintained its unbeaten streak under the leadership of Ayush Mhatre. Afghanistan has overcome challenges South Africa and this west indies At the start of the tournament, enter the Knockouts as a formidable force capable of overturning any established order.
ICC Official Panel: Umpires and Match Referees confirmed
To maintain the integrity of these high-octane matches, the ICC has deployed a strong officiating team. For the Australia-England match in Bulawayo, Zahid Bassarath And Virendra Sharma Will serve as on-field umpire. Basarath is fresh to play a role in England’s decisive win new zealandWhile Virender has overseen an impressive performance against Australia Sri Lanka And Japan. Lubabalo Gakuma Will play the role of third umpire Prageeth Rambukwella as the fourth umpire and Prakash Bhatt Supervising the match as a referee.
Responsibilities came on the field in the second semi-final between India and Afghanistan sean hagg And Russell Warren. Haig has been a consistent presence in Afghanistan’s successful group stage run, while Warren was at the helm during India’s victory. usa And bangladesh. The caretaker team has been rounded out sean craig (third umpire), Masudur Mukul (fourth umpire), and experienced Graeme La Bruy As match referee.
Complete list of umpires and match referees
Semifinal 1: : Australia vs England
- On-field umpire: Zahid Basrath and Virendra Sharma
- Third umpire: Lubabalo Gakuma
- Fourth umpire: Prageeth Rambukwella
- Match Referee: Prakash Bhatt
semi final 2: : india vs afghanistan
- On-field umpire: Sean Haig and Russell Warren
- Third umpire: sean craig
- Fourth umpire: Masudur Mukul
- Match Referee: Graeme La Bruy