Global representation at the 2026 U19 World Cup
The ICC has ensured strong international representation in its office appointments, with officials from thirteen different countries. This broad mix reflects the governing body’s emphasis on neutrality, experience and consistency as the world’s best young cricketers prepare to compete on the world stage.
Zimbabwe, the host country, will be represented by two referees: Forster the escape And I know Chabi. Mutizwa brings valuable insight to the field, having previously played 21 caps for Zimbabwe in various formats. His transition from international cricketer to elite referee underlines the ICC’s push to include former players in officiating roles.
Experienced names add credibility to the referee panel
The umpiring line-up consists of several seasoned officials with extensive experience in international and domestic cricket. Former West Indies international Deighton Butler is one of the notable appointments and adds a strong cricket pedigree to the panel. England Graham Lloyd has also been selected, continuing a family legacy in his role as his father David Lloyd was a respected international referee before becoming a prominent broadcaster.
Other referees named for the tournament come from a wide range of Full Member and Associate countries including Australia, New Zealand, India, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Ireland and the Netherlands. The ICC believes that this balance of backgrounds will help maintain high standards of leadership in a variety of playing conditions.
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Match referees provide international supervision
In addition to the referees, four very experienced match referees have been appointed who monitor the conduct of the matches throughout the entire competition. England Daan CoskerIndian Prakash BhattSri Lanka Graeme Labroosand that of Bangladesh Neeyamur Rahul will take charge of competition management, code of conduct and general operational supervision.
Each referee has previously competed in ICC tournaments and bilateral series, providing reassurance that the Under-19 World Cup will be administered with professionalism and consistency.
Match officials for the 2026 U19 World Cup
Referees: Ahmad Shah Durrani (Afghanistan), Aidan Seaver (Ireland), Cory Black (New Zealand), Deighton Butler (West Indies), Faisal Afridi (Pakistan), Forster Mutizwa (Zimbabwe), Graham Lloyd (England), Iknow Chabi (Zimbabwe), Lubabalo Gcuma (South Africa), Masudur Mukul (Bangladesh), Nitin Bathi (Netherlands), Phillip Gillespie (Australia), Prageeth Rambukwella (Sri Lanka), Russell Warren (England), Shaun Haig (New Zealand), Shawn Craig (Australia), Virender Sharma (India), Zahid Bassarath (West Indies)
Referees: Dean Cosker (England), Graeme La Brooy (Sri Lanka), Neeyamur Rahul (Bangladesh), Prakash Bhatt (India)
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