What is the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires?
A group of the top-rated cricket umpires selected by the ICC to officiate in high-profile international matches, including Tests, ODIs, T20Is, and major ICC tournaments.
Who are the newest members?
Allahudien Paleker (South Africa)
Alex Wharf (England)
The ICC announced their inclusion on March 25, 2025.
Who stepped down from the Elite Panel?
Michael Gough
Joel Wilson
What experience do the new umpires bring?
Allahudien Paleker
Officiated in 4 Tests, 23 ODIs, 67 T20Is (men’s) and 17 women’s internationals
Umpired in T20 World Cup 2024 & Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024
Alex Wharf
Former first-class cricketer & played 13 ODIs for England
Officiated in 7 Tests, 33 ODIs, 45 T20Is
Umpired in multiple ICC Men’s & Women’s World Cups, T20 World Cups (2024), and Champions Trophy 2025
What was their reaction?
Allahudien Paleker called it an honour and thanked his family, mentors, ICC, and Cricket South Africa.
Alex Wharf expressed gratitude for the opportunities and support from ICC and ECB.
Who are the 12 umpires in the Elite Panel for 2025-26?
Kumar Dharmasena (Sri Lanka)
Christopher Gaffaney (New Zealand)
Adrian Holdstock (South Africa)
Richard Illingworth (England)
Richard Kettleborough (England)
Nitin Menon (India)
Allahudien Paleker (South Africa)
Ahsan Raza (Pakistan)
Paul Reiffel (Australia)
Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid (Bangladesh)
Rodney Tucker (Australia)
Alex Wharf (England)
Why is this role so important?
Elite umpires ensure fair play and enforce rules at the highest level. Their decisions can impact match results, making their expertise and neutrality critical to cricket’s integrity.