Richard Illingworth and Richard Kettleborough, both hailing from England, have been selected as the on-field umpires for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 final between India and Australia in Ahmedabad.
The English pair will oversee the crucial duties during this high-stakes clash of the World Cup.
This marks the second time for Kettleborough, who previously officiated in the final of the 2015 Cricket World Cup, where he partnered with Kumar Dharmasena.
Over 93,000 spectators witnessed that match. However, this number is likely to be surpassed, with a three-figure crowd expected on Sunday, as the host nation aims to repeat their 2011 victory and claim the World Cup on home turf.
For Illingworth, it will also be his second appearance in a World Cup final, although his first as a match official. He was a player in the 1992 Cricket World Cup final.
Both Illingworth and Kettleborough were elevated to the ICC International List on the same day in November 2009. They officiated as on-field umpires during the semi-finals this week; Illingworth oversaw India’s win over New Zealand in Mumbai, while Kettleborough presided over Australia’s thrilling victory against South Africa in Kolkata.
These umpires have had illustrious careers, with both receiving the David Shepherd Trophy, presented to the ICC's Umpire of the Year. Kettleborough secured this award three consecutive times between 2013 and 2015, while Illingworth earned it in 2019 and 2022.
Joining them as officials for the crucial final on Sunday are Joel Wilson as the third umpire, Chris Gaffaney as the fourth umpire, and match referee Andy Pycroft. All of them were part of the officiating teams during the semi-finals as well.
Australia, looking for their sixth World Cup, are set to lock horns with India, who eye their first ICC trophy since 2013, in the much-anticipated final in Ahmedabad where more than 100,000 spectators are expected to watch the showdown between two powerhouses