Cricket enthusiasts are buzzing as the ICC unveils the international panel of umpires and referees for the Under-19 Men’s World Cup 2026 semifinals. Taking place in Zimbabwe, these matches will determine the finalists in one of youth cricket’s biggest stages.
Semifinal 1 unfolds on February 3 at Bulawayo’s Queens Sports Club, featuring Australia versus England. On-field arbiters Zahid Basheer and Virender Sharma will call the shots. Basheer handled England-New Zealand, Sharma umpired Australia’s games against Japan and Sri Lanka. Supporting them are third umpire Lubabalo Gcuma, fourth umpire Prageeth Rambukwela, and referee Prakash Bhatt.
On February 4, Harare Sports Club hosts India vs Afghanistan in Semifinal 2. Shaun Hague and Russell Warren man the on-field roles—Hague for Afghanistan’s wins over South Africa and West Indies, Warren for India’s successes against USA and Bangladesh. Shaun Craig as third, Masudur Mukul fourth, and Graeme Labrooy refereeing.
Team India’s campaign stands out with a flawless record. Starting with a DLS-adjusted 6-wicket win, they followed with 18-run DLS margin over Bangladesh, 7-wicket DLS against New Zealand. Super Sixes saw a massive 204-run rout of Zimbabwe and 58-run defeat of Pakistan, propelling them confidently into semis.
With experienced officials in place, the focus shifts to the young stars. Australia’s depth, England’s flair, India’s dominance, and Afghanistan’s grit set the stage for unforgettable drama. Who will advance? The cricket world watches closely.
