The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the addition of two umpires to its Elite Panel, with Allahudien Paleker from South Africa and Alex Wharf from England joining the prestigious group.
Both umpires will replace Michael Gough and Joel Wilson in the latest reshuffling of the umpires’ panel.
Paleker, a former first-class cricketer, has progressed steadily in his umpiring career, currently having officiated in four Test matches, 23 One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and 67 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) in men’s cricket, as well as 17 women’s internationals.
He has been instrumental in significant ICC events, including the upcoming Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 and the Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024.
Wharf, who represented England at the international level, successfully transitioned into umpiring after a 16-year career in first-class cricket.
As an on-field official, he has taken part in seven Test matches, 33 ODIs, and 45 T20Is.
His experience also includes officiating at major events, such as the ICC Men’s and Women’s Cricket World Cups, the T20 World Cups in 2024, and the forthcoming Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.
Jay Shah, Chairman of the ICC, congratulated the new appointees and acknowledged Gough and Wilson’s efforts.
“Being an elite official entails scrutiny and pressure, but we believe both Allahudien and Alex have the temperament, experience, and skills to perform consistently at this highest level,” Shah stated in an ICC announcement.
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“We would like to express our sincere gratitude to both Joel and Michael for their years of service to the sport,” he added.
For Paleker, joining the ICC Elite Panel signifies a major achievement in his umpiring journey, which he attributes to the steadfast support from his mentors, family, and colleagues.
“This is a pivotal moment in my umpiring career. It’s a privilege to be selected for the elite panel, and I am eager to fulfill the trust placed in me,” Allahudien Paleker remarked.
“I would like to express my gratitude to my family, friends, coaches, mentors, the ICC, and Cricket South Africa for their backing.”
“To my father, Jamalodien, who was also an umpire—he is my inspiration and role model. Finally, to my wife Shakira, thank you for being my foundation throughout this journey,” he concluded.
Wharf also shared his appreciation, recognizing the guidance he has received throughout his career.
“I want to sincerely thank the ICC and ECB for the opportunities they’ve offered over the years,” Wharf stated.
“This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible colleagues who have shared their knowledge with me and supported me both on and off the field. I am excited for this new chapter in my career,” he said.
Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Umpires (2025-26):
Kumar Dharmasena (Sri Lanka), Christopher Gaffaney (New Zealand), Adrian Holdstock (South Africa), Richard Illingworth (England), Richard Kettleborough (England), Nitin Menon (India), Allahuddien Paleker (South Africa), Ahsan Raza (Pakistan), Paul Reiffel (Australia), Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid (Bangladesh), Rodney Tucker (Australia), Alex Wharf (England).
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