Match officials named for ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 semi-finals

JRP_7791_tNrzRpUm_20260130030100

Media release

The Emirates ICC International Panels of Umpires and Referees have been named for the two semi-finals at the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026.

Australia and England, who are both unbeaten in the competition so far, go head-to-head on 3 February, with Zahid Bassarath and Virender Sharma the on-field umpires.

Bassarath took charge of England’s most recent victory, over New Zealand, while Sharma has been in the middle for Australia’s wins over Japan and Sri Lanka.

Lubabalo Gcuma will be the third umpire, with Prageeth Rambukwella in place as fourth umpire. Prakash Bhatt is the match referee.

Shaun Haig and Russell Warren are the on-field duo for the second semi-final between India and Afghanistan in Harare on 4 February.

Haig oversaw Afghanistan’s group stage wins over South Africa and the West Indies, while Warren was in the middle for India’s successes against the USA and Bangladesh.

Shawn Craig is in place as third umpire, with Masudur Mukul named as fourth umpire. Graeme La Brooy is match referee.

Semi-Final 1: Bulawayo, Tuesday 3 February 2026

Australia v England

  • On-field Umpires: Zahid Bassarath & Virender Sharma

  • Third Umpire: Lubabalo Gcuma

  • Fourth Umpire: Prageeth Rambukwella

  • Match Referee: Prakash Bhatt

Semi-Final 2: Harare, Wednesday 4 February 2026

India v Afghanistan

  • On-field Umpires: Shaun Haig & Russell Warren
  • Third Umpire: Shawn Craig
  • Fourth Umpire: Masudur Mukul
  • Match Referee: Graeme La Brooy

ENDS