Shathira Jakir Jessy named in ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 officials panel – Shathira Jakir Jessy Named in ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Panel

A Historic Appointment for Bangladesh Cricket

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially unveiled the list of match officials tasked with overseeing the highly anticipated 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup. Set to be hosted by England and Wales, the tournament promises to be a showcase of elite talent, not only on the pitch but also within the officiating ranks. Among the distinguished group of professionals chosen to uphold the integrity of the game is Bangladeshi umpire Shathira Jakir Jessy, who stands as the sole representative from her country.

Continuing the Tradition of Excellence

This tournament marks a significant milestone as the ICC maintains its commitment to gender diversity in officiating. For the third consecutive Women’s T20 World Cup, the governing body has appointed an all-female panel of match officials. The carefully curated list consists of 14 umpires and 4 match referees, totaling 18 officials responsible for managing the 33-match event. This initiative highlights the ICC’s dedication to providing opportunities for women in technical and leadership roles within cricket.

Of the 18 officials selected, nine are returning from the 2024 edition, demonstrating a balance between experienced campaigners and fresh talent. Alongside these seasoned figures, four officials are set to make their World Cup debuts, signaling a bright future for the next generation of international cricket arbiters. These debutants include Candace La Borde, Gayathri Venugopalan, Kerrin Klaaste, and, notably, Shathira Jakir Jessy.

The Rise of Shathira Jakir Jessy

Shathira Jakir Jessy’s inclusion is a testament to her consistent performance and dedication to the sport. While she previously showcased her officiating skills at the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup in India, the T20 World Cup 2026 represents her first appearance in the shorter, high-intensity format of the global tournament. Her progression through the officiating ranks is a source of pride for the Bangladeshi cricketing community, proving that match officials from the nation are increasingly capable of performing at the highest levels of international competition.

Tournament Overview and Expectations

The 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup is scheduled to commence on June 12 and will run through to the final on July 5. The tournament will feature 12 teams competing for the title, including the Bangladesh women’s national cricket team. Having secured their place in the tournament after a dominant performance as champions in the qualifiers, the Bangladeshi squad is set to compete on the world stage, with Jessy officiating alongside them in a different, albeit equally vital, capacity.

The Full Panel of Officials

The professionalism required to officiate a World Cup is immense. The selected panel brings together the best talent from around the globe to ensure the tournament runs smoothly and fairly.

Emirates ICC International Panel of Umpires:

• Lauren Agenbag
• Kim Cotton
• Anna Harris
• Shathira Jakir Jessy
• Kerrin Klaaste
• Candace La Borde
• Janani N
• Nimali Perera
• Claire Polosak
• Vrinda Rathi
• Suzanne Redfern
• Eloise Sheridan
• Jacquline Williams
• Gayathri Venugopalan

Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees:

• Trudy Anderson
• Shandré Fritz
• GS Lakshmi
• Michell Pereira

As the cricket world turns its eyes to England and Wales for this event, the focus will be on the players, but the presence of individuals like Shathira Jakir Jessy ensures that the standard of the game remains in capable hands. Her journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring female umpires in Bangladesh and beyond, underscoring the growing importance of merit and representation in international cricket.