The stage is set for a thrilling T20 World Cup final between India and South Africa in Barbados this Saturday. While both teams will be vying for glory, Indian fans received some welcome news with the announcement of the match officials.
Richard Kettleborough absence on-field relief for India fans
Chris Gaffaney of New Zealand and Richard Illingworth of England have been named as the on-field umpires for the high-stakes clash. This news comes as a sigh of relief for many Indian fans, not necessarily because of Gaffaney or Illingworth’s specific skills, but rather due to the absence of Richard Kettleborough.
Despite being a respected umpire, Kettleborough’s presence has become a source of concern for Indian fans in ICC knockout matches.
Statistically, India has a poor record in these high-pressure games when Richard Kettleborough officiates, having lost six such matches in the last decade – three World Cup semi-finals and three finals. This run of defeats has led many fans to view Kettleborough as an unlucky charm for India.
India’s record in ICC knockout matches with Richard Kettleborough as the umpire
- 2014 T20 World Cup Final (lost to Sri Lanka)
- 2015 ODI World Cup Semifinal (lost to Australia)
- 2016 T20 World Cup Semifinal (lost to the West Indies)
- 2017 Champions Trophy Final (lost to Pakistan)
- 2019 ODI World Cup Semifinal (lost to New Zealand)
- 2023 ODI World Cup Final (lost to Australia)
Richard Kettleborough still involved, but not on-field
However, Indian fans needn’t celebrate just yet. While Richard Kettleborough won’t be standing on the field, he will still be involved in the final as the third umpire, also known as the TV umpire. This means he will be responsible for reviewing on-field decisions using video replays.
More News:
IND vs SA Match Details and Remaining Officials
The final will be played at the historic Kensington Oval in Barbados, which previously hosted a T20 World Cup final in 2010. India and South Africa booked their spots in dominant fashion, with India defeating England by 68 runs and South Africa crushing Afghanistan by nine wickets in their respective semi-finals.
Joining Gaffaney and Illingworth on the officiating team will be Richard Kettleborough as the TV umpire, Rod Tucker as the fourth umpire, and Richie Richardson as the match referee.
India vs South Africa match officials
Referee: Richie Richardson
On-field Umpires: Christopher Gaffaney and Richard Illingworth
TV Umpire: Richard Kettleborough
Fourth Umpire: Rodney Tucker
With the stage set and the officials confirmed, all eyes turn to Saturday’s clash between India and South Africa, a match that promises to be a nail-biter.
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