The ICC has announced the match officials for the much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final between India and New Zealand, scheduled for March 9 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Experienced umpires Paul Reiffel and Richard Illingworth will take charge as on-field officials, ensuring the match is played within the laws of the game. Joel Wilson will handle TV umpire duties, reviewing crucial decisions via video replays, while Kumar Dharmasena will serve as the fourth umpire, assisting with on-field protocols.
Overseeing the match as referee will be the highly respected Ranjan Madugalle, ensuring smooth conduct throughout the contest. For Indian fans, Richard Illingworth’s appointment may evoke mixed emotions. He was one of the on-field umpires in India’s heartbreaking 2023 ODI World Cup final loss to Australia. However, he was also present during India’s triumphant 2024 T20 World Cup final victory, their first ICC title in 11 years.
Additionally, Illingworth officiated India’s group-stage match against New Zealand in Dubai, which India won by 44 runs, as well as their semi-final clash against Australia. Australian umpire Paul Reiffel brings significant experience to the game, having recently officiated the Champions Trophy semi-final between New Zealand and South Africa.
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That match saw New Zealand clinch a commanding 50-run victory, thanks to outstanding centuries from Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson. With his extensive umpiring career, Reiffel’s presence adds to the high-quality officiating expected in the final.
Richard Illingworth, a four-time ICC Umpire of the Year, is on the verge of a significant milestone, as this final will mark his 99th ODI as an on-field umpire in his 15-year career. His umpiring partner, Paul Reiffel, is equally experienced, having officiated 95 ODIs since his debut in 2009. Their combined expertise ensures the final will be officiated with precision and fairness.
Match officials for the #ChampionsTrophy 2025 Final between #INDvNZ 🏏
On-field Umpires: Paul Reiffel & Richard Illingworth
Third Umpire: Joel Wilson
Fourth Umpire: Kumar Dharmasena
Match Referee: Ranjan Madugalle pic.twitter.com/y9NNtxMyAo
— Doordarshan Sports (@ddsportschannel) March 7, 2025
As India enters the final, they do so as the tournament’s only unbeaten team, making them strong favourites. Their earlier victory over New Zealand in the group stage, where Varun Chakravarthy’s five-wicket haul dismantled the Black Caps, adds to their confidence.
Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel also played crucial roles with the bat in that match, showcasing India’s depth. However, New Zealand cannot be counted out, especially given their formidable top order. Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Will Young, and Tom Latham have been in fine form, making them a dangerous opposition.
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The Kiwis will look to learn from their previous encounter against India and put up a stronger challenge in the final. With a high-stakes contest ahead, all eyes will be on the match officials, ensuring fair play, and the two teams, battling for the coveted ICC Champions Trophy title.
