The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially named the match officials for the highly anticipated ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 final between India and New Zealand, scheduled for March 9 at the Dubai International Stadium.
According to the ICC announcement, Paul Reiffel and Richard Illingworth will serve as the on-field umpires for the grand finale. Joel Wilson has been appointed as the third umpire, while Kumar Dharmasena will take on the role of fourth umpire.
Ranjan Madugalle, an experienced ICC official, will oversee the match as the referee.
Paul Reiffel recently officiated the South Africa-New Zealand semi-final in Lahore, whereas Richard Illingworth was part of the umpiring panel for the India-Australia semi-final in Dubai.
Illingworth, a four-time ICC Umpire of the Year, has a wealth of experience, having stood in the finals of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.
He also officiated the Group A clash between India and New Zealand earlier in the tournament, which India won by 44 runs.
India secured their place in the final after a thrilling four-wicket victory over Australia in the first semi-final, while New Zealand displayed an aggressive batting performance to defeat South Africa by 50 runs in the second semi-final.
The Champions Trophy final between India and New Zealand is set to commence at 2:00 PM GST at the Dubai International Stadium, promising a thrilling contest between two of the world’s top cricketing nations.