Hyderabad: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has taken a significant step forward in promoting gender equality by announcing an all-women team of on-field and match officials for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. This groundbreaking event will be hosted in the United Arab Emirates, with matches taking place in the bustling cities of Dubai and Sharjah from October 3 to October 20.

The officiating panel for this prestigious tournament includes ten seasoned umpires and three match referees, all of whom are experienced women in the field of cricket. Among them is India’s GS Lakshmi, who has been officiating since 2012 and served as the match referee for the ICC Women’s World Cup final in 2023. She is joined by Shandre Fritz and Michell Pereira, both of whom are making their second appearance as match referees in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.

Leading the panel of umpires is Claire Polosak, who will be officiating in her fifth ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, making her the most experienced umpire in this elite group. Alongside Polosak, Kim Cotton and Jacqueline Williams, who are each participating in their fourth ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, will bring their extensive expertise to the tournament. Notably, Cotton and Williams were the on-field umpires during the thrilling Australia vs South Africa T20 World Cup final in February 2023.

Adding to the list of seasoned officials is Sue Redfern, who served as the TV umpire for the 2023 final. She will be making her fourth appearance in this tournament, further enhancing the panel’s depth of experience. The group also welcomes a newcomer, Sarah Dambanevana from Zimbabwe, who will be officiating in her first World Cup.

Sean Easey, ICC Senior Manager of Umpires and Referees, expressed pride in this all-female lineup, emphasizing the ICC’s commitment to advancing women in cricket. He stated, “The ICC is proud to be contributing to the advancement of women in our sport. Announcing this all-female lineup of match officials for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 is wonderful. This group, selected as the most deserving umpires for this event following their recent form in bilateral and other cricket, are some of the very best from around the world. We are confident that they will do a great job at this event. I wish them the best of luck as they oversee the world’s top women’s cricketers in what will be an exciting tournament for all involved.”

The list of match referees includes Shandré Fritz, GS Lakshmi, and Michell Pereira. The team of umpires features Lauren Agenbag, Kim Cotton, Sarah Dambanevana, Anna Harris, Nimali Perera, Claire Polosak, Vrinda Rathi, Sue Redfern, Eloise Sheridan, and Jacqueline Williams.

This all-women officiating panel not only represents a milestone for gender equality in sports but also showcases the growing influence and capabilities of women in cricket. As they prepare to oversee some of the world’s best women’s cricketers, the excitement for this tournament continues to build among fans and players alike.