The big final of 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is on Sunday, March 9 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium and it’s India vs New Zealand. As the hype builds up for this big game, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the match officials for the game.

On-Field Umpires: Paul Reiffel and Richard Illingworth

The on field umpires for the final will be Paul Reiffel and Richard Illingworth, both are part of the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires. Their experience and expertise will be very important in making the game smooth and fair.

Reiffel was in good form, he was the umpire in the semifinal where New Zealand beats South Africa by 50 runs. Illingworth was the umpire in the semifinal where India beats Australia by 4 wickets. Illingworth is a four time ICC Umpire of the Year and had officiated in 2023 ODI World Cup and 2024 T20 World Cup finals. Also he was the umpire in the Group A game between India and New Zealand earlier in the tournament.

Third Umpire: Joel Wilson

Joel Wilson will be the third umpire for the final. Another ICC Elite Umpire, Wilson has umpired in big games before, including the semifinal between New Zealand and South Africa where he was the third umpire. His job will be to make the big decisions on run-outs, boundary calls and other contentious moments that may come up during the match.

Fourth Umpire: Kumar Dharmasena

Kumar Dharmasena will be the fourth umpire for the final. Like Wilson, Dharmasena is also an ICC Elite Umpire and has a lot of international experience. He was on field umpire in the semifinal between New Zealand and South Africa, so he has been in big games before.

Match Referee: Ranjan Madugalle

The match referee for the final will be Ranjan Madugalle who is one of the most experienced members of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees. Madugalle has been around the block many times and will ensure the game is played according to the laws and spirit of the game.

Match Officials Summary

On-Field Umpires: Paul Reiffel and Richard Illingworth
Third Umpire: Joel Wilson
Fourth Umpire: Kumar Dharmasena
Match Referee: Ranjan Madugalle

Context of the Final

India under Rohit Sharma is on a unbeaten run having beaten Bangladesh, Pakistan, New Zealand and Australia in succession. They will be looking to add another trophy to their cabinet having won the 2024 T20 World Cup.

New Zealand under Mitchell Santner will be looking to avenge their earlier loss to India in the Group A match where they lost by 44 runs. Both teams are chasing the Champions Trophy and this is a must watch event for all cricket fans around the world.