Dubai, March 25, 2025: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced updates to its Elite Panel of Umpires, with Allahudien Paleker of South Africa and Alex Wharf of England joining the prestigious group. Their inclusion comes as Michael Gough (England) and Joel Wilson (West Indies) make way, marking a significant change in the panel for the upcoming season.
A former first-class cricketer, Allahudien Paleker has built an impressive umpiring career, officiating four Tests, 23 ODIs, and 67 T20Is in men’s cricket, along with 17 women’s international matches. His experience includes officiating at major ICC tournaments, such as the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup and the 2024 U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup.
Alex Wharf, a former England international who played 13 ODIs, brings with him a wealth of experience from a 16-year first-class career. As an umpire, he has stood in seven Tests, 33 ODIs, and 45 T20Is in men’s international cricket. His recent assignments include the Men’s and Women’s Cricket World Cups, the Men’s and Women’s T20 World Cups (2024), and the upcoming 2025 Champions Trophy.
ICC Chair Jay Shah extended his best wishes to the newly appointed umpires while also acknowledging the contributions of Gough and Wilson.
“Being an elite official brings with it scrutiny and pressure, but we are confident that both Allahudien and Alex possess the temperament, experience, and skill to deliver consistently at this top level,” Shah said.
“On behalf of the ICC, I wish them all the best for the upcoming season. We would also like to place on record our sincere thanks to Joel and Michael for their services to the world game over the years.”
The updated Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Umpires includes Kumar Dharmasena (Sri Lanka), Christopher Gaffaney (New Zealand), Adrian Holdstock (South Africa), Richard Illingworth (England), Richard Kettleborough (England), Nitin Menon (India), Allahudien Paleker (South Africa), Ahsan Raza (Pakistan), Paul Reiffel (Australia), Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid (Bangladesh), Rodney Tucker (Australia) and Alex Wharf (England).
