ICC announces referees and match referee panel for 2026 U19 World Cup semi-finals

The road to the pinnacle of age-group cricket has entered its penultimate stage International Cricket Council (ICC) Match officials official for high-stakes semi-finals ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026. With four of the world’s most promising youth teams still in contention for the prestigious trophy, the UAE ICC International Referee Panel has been carefully selected to oversee these important matches Zimbabwe.

The tournament is a masterclass for emerging talent and as the pressure mounts, the International Cricket Council relies on its mix of experienced veterans and rising stars in its international panels to ensure the highest umpiring standards. These appointments were made at a time when there was no room for error and the eyes of the cricket world were on Bulawayo and Harare.

Semi-final schedule: Undefeated giants and Asian giants

The first semi-final is expected to be at February 3, 2026In a heavyweight match at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, Australia and England. Both sides maintained perfect records throughout the tournament, making this an unofficial “final before the final.” Australia, under consistent leadership Nitish Samuel and captain Oliver Peakehas shown clinical efficacy. England, meanwhile, are driven by prolific Ben Meyerstheir batting exploits made them the team to beat.

The match then moved to Harare Sports Club February 4, 2026an interesting all-Asia encounter between the defending champions India and a flexible Afghanistan. India sealed their spot with a hard-fought victory over their arch-rivals PakistanUnbeaten under his leadership Ayush Mehat. Afghanistan has overcome South Africa and west indies In the early stages of the tournament, enter the knockout rounds as a powerful force capable of disrupting any established order.

Also read: Men’s U19 World Cup 2026, Semi-Finals: Broadcast, Live Streaming Details – When and Where to Watch in India, US, UK, Australia and Other Countries

ICC Official Panel: Umpires and Match Referees Confirmed

To maintain the integrity of these high-intensity matches, the International Cricket Federation has deployed a strong team of umpires. For Australia vs England clash in Bulawayo, Zahid Basarat and Virender Sharma Will serve as on-field referee. Basarat had just officiated England’s decisive victory New Zealandwhile Virender oversaw the Australian team’s performance against Sri Lanka and Japan. Lubabaro Gukuma will serve as the third referee, Prajith Rambukwella as fourth referee and Prakash Bhatt Supervise the game as a referee.

In India’s second semi-final against Afghanistan, the onus on the field falls on Sean Haigh and Russell Warren. Hague has been in fine form during Afghanistan’s successful group stage campaign, while Warren was at the helm during India’s victory over Afghanistan. USA and Bangladesh. The referee team consists of the following personnel Sean Craig (Third referee), Masudul Mukul (Fourth Referee) and experienced Graeme Labroy Serve as match referee.

Full list of referees and game re-calls

Semi-final 1: australia vs england