ICC Announces Match Officials for Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-Finals Venue, Schedule, Date

ICC Confirms Match Officials for Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-Finals

Experienced Umpires Set to Officiate India vs Australia and South Africa vs New Zealand Clashes

Dubai, March 3, 2025: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the match officials for the semi-finals of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025. With India taking on Australia in Dubai and South Africa facing New Zealand in Lahore, the governing body has appointed experienced umpires and match referees to oversee these high-stakes encounters.

The semi-finals promise to be thrilling contests, with all four teams eager to secure a spot in the final. The selection of seasoned officials ensures that these crucial matches will be conducted with the highest standards of fairness and accuracy.

India vs Australia Semi-Final: Gaffaney and Illingworth to Take Charge

The highly anticipated clash between India and Australia in Dubai will be officiated by:

• On-field umpires: Chris Gaffaney (New Zealand) & Richard Illingworth (England)

• Third umpire: Michael Gough (England)

• Fourth umpire: Adrian Holdstock (South Africa)

• Match referee: Andy Pycroft (Zimbabwe)

This officiating team brings a wealth of experience to the table, ensuring that the high-pressure semi-final is handled with precision.

A Look at the Umpires’ Experience

• Chris Gaffaney is a well-respected umpire from New Zealand who has officiated in multiple ICC tournaments. He was originally scheduled to umpire Australia’s Group B match against South Africa, but rain prevented the game from being completed.

• Richard Illingworth, a former England cricketer, is one of the most seasoned umpires in world cricket. He has already officiated India’s group-stage clash against New Zealand and will now oversee another crucial match in Dubai.

• Michael Gough, the third umpire for this fixture, is known for his sharp decision-making, while Adrian Holdstock, the fourth umpire, adds further experience to the panel.

• Andy Pycroft, the match referee, has overseen numerous ICC events and will ensure the smooth conduct of this high-profile encounter.

With India and Australia having a history of intense ICC knockout clashes, the role of match officials will be critical in managing the pressure and ensuring fair play.

South Africa vs New Zealand Semi-Final: Dharmasena and Reiffel to Lead the Officiating Team

The second semi-final between South Africa and New Zealand, set to be played in Lahore, will be overseen by:

• On-field umpires: Kumar Dharmasena (Sri Lanka) & Paul Reiffel (Australia)

• Third umpire: Joel Wilson (West Indies)

• Fourth umpire: Ahsan Raza (Pakistan)

• Match referee: Ranjan Madugalle (Sri Lanka)

The Umpiring Panel’s Credentials

• Kumar Dharmasena, a former Sri Lankan cricketer, is one of the most recognized umpires in world cricket. He recently officiated New Zealand’s Group A match against Bangladesh and brings years of experience to the semi-final stage.

• Paul Reiffel, a former Australian fast bowler, was on-field when India defeated Pakistan in the group stage. His deep understanding of the game adds immense value to the officiating team.

• Joel Wilson, the third umpire for this match, has extensive experience in ICC tournaments, ensuring a sharp eye for technology-based decisions.

• Ahsan Raza, the fourth umpire, brings local knowledge to the Lahore fixture, while match referee Ranjan Madugalle is one of the most experienced ICC officials, known for his calm and composed handling of major games.

Why Match Officials Are Crucial in ICC Knockouts

With millions of fans watching worldwide, every decision in a semi-final of an ICC event is scrutinized. The umpires and referees play a key role in:

• Ensuring fair play by maintaining the rules and spirit of the game.

• Handling high-pressure moments such as close run-outs, contentious LBW appeals, and DRS decisions.

• Managing player conduct to ensure that emotions do not boil over in a high-stakes environment.

• Using technology effectively, with third umpires and DRS playing a crucial role in reviewing on-field calls.

What’s at Stake

The two winners of the semi-finals will advance to the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 final, where they will compete for the prestigious title. With India, Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand all fielding strong squads, these matchups are expected to be closely contested.

India vs Australia – A Rivalry Renewed

• India and Australia have a rich history of ICC knockout battles, including the 2023 ODI World Cup final, where Australia emerged victorious.

• Rohit Sharma’s men will be looking to avenge that defeat and secure their place in the final.

South Africa vs New Zealand – A Battle of Resilience

• South Africa has often struggled in ICC knockouts, while New Zealand has a reputation for excelling in crunch matches.

• With both teams having played quality cricket throughout the tournament, this match is set to be a fascinating contest.

Final Thoughts – All Eyes on the Semi-Finals

As the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 reaches its knockout stage, the appointment of experienced match officials ensures that both semi-finals will be officiated with the highest standards of professionalism.

With top umpires like Chris Gaffaney, Richard Illingworth, Kumar Dharmasena, and Paul Reiffel taking charge, along with seasoned match referees Andy Pycroft and Ranjan Madugalle, cricket fans can expect fair and well-managed encounters.

The semi-finals promise intense battles, with teams fighting for a place in the ultimate showdown. With India, Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand all eager to etch their names in history, the stage is set for a thrilling climax to the tournament.