The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday announced an all-female panel of match officials for the the forthcoming edition of the Women's T20 World Cup in South Africa. This is the first time ever that a global cricket competition will be headed entirely by female officials.
Three match referees and 10 umpires comprise ICC's 13-woman match official panel. The move is part of the world cricket governing body's efforts of ensuring women are more involved and visible in the sport. The match official panel also lists the Indian trio of GS Lakshmi, Vrinda Rathi and Janani Narayanan
ICC General Manager of Cricket, Wasim Khan, was thriller to announce the development.
"We are thrilled to announce this panel of match officials for the Women’s T20 World Cup. Women’s cricket has been growing rapidly in recent years and as part of that we have been building the pathways to ensure more women have the opportunity to officiate at the highest level," he was quoted as saying in an official release.
"This announcement is a reflection of our intent in this space and just the start of our journey where men and women enjoy the same opportunities across our sport. We are committed to continuing to support our female match officials and provide opportunities to showcase their talents on the global stage. I wish them all the best for the tournament," he added.
Meanwhile, Snehal Pradhan, ICC Manager - Women’s Cricket also said that the move will act as an encouragement for the youth.
"When young women and girls see it, they believe that they can be it. That’s just one of the reasons why having this match officials panel is so special," she said.
"It shows the next generation that there is a career and a pathway that takes them to the very top of the game, the World Cup, even if you’re not a player. It shows that there are so many ways to get involved," she added.
Match Officials at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2023
Match Referees: GS Lakshmi (India), Shandre Fritz (South Africa), Michell Pereira (Sri Lanka)
Umpires: Sue Redfern (England), Eloise Sheridan (Australia), Claire Polosak (Australia), Jacqueline WIlliams (West Indies), Kim Cotton (New Zealand), Lauren Agenbag (South Africa), Anna Harris (England), Vrinda Rathi (India), N Janani (India), Nimali Perera (Sri Lanka)