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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has formally announced the match officials who will be taking charge of the upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh. The series, part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle, is set to kick off on August 21 in Rawalpindi.
The experienced match referee
Sri Lanka’s Ranjan Madugalle, a seasoned member of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, has been entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing both Test matches. His extensive experience in the game will be crucial in ensuring fair play and smooth conduct of the series.
Notably, Madugalle recently scripted history in 2023 by becoming the first match referee to officiate in 400 men’s ODIs. This monumental achievement was achieved during the third ODI of the Sri Lanka versus India series, held at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
On-field umpires for the Rawalpindi Test
The on-field action will be monitored by a strong umpiring panel featuring a mix of experienced and rising stars. England’s Richard Kettleborough and South Africa’s Adrian Holdstock will share the on-field duties for the Rawalpindi Test. England’s Michael Gough will be the third umpire, while Pakistan’s Rashid Riaz will act as the fourth umpire.
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On-field umpires for the Karachi Test
For the Karachi Test, Gough and Holdstock will continue their on-field responsibilities, while Kettleborough will swap roles to become the third umpire. Pakistan’s Asif Yaqoob will take charge as the fourth umpire for this match. Not to mention, the inclusion of a mix of international and domestic umpires adds depth to the officiating team and ensures a high standard of decision-making throughout the series.
Notably, the first Test is scheduled to be played in Rawalpindi from August 21 to 25, followed by the second Test in Karachi from August 30 to September 3. The preparation camp for the upcoming Test series is slated to begin on August 11.
