Nitin Menon Retains Place As Sole Indian In ICC Elite Umpires Panel

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has retained its Elite Panels of Umpires and Match Referees for the 2026–27 international season following its annual performance review, with India’s Nitin Menon continuing as the only Indian in the elite umpiring group.

The decision was taken after a comprehensive assessment by the ICC Umpire Selection Panel , which evaluated performances across international cricket. The governing body confirmed an unchanged set of officials , underlining consistency in global officiating standards.

ICC Chief Executive Officer Sanjog Gupta said the retention of the panels reflects the “consistency and high standards” that define international officiating. He highlighted that elite officials are valued for their ability to deliver clear and confident decision-making under pressure across formats and playing conditions.While umpires make on-field decisions during matches, match referees oversee the game’s conduct and handle disciplinary matters off the field.

Menon, who has been part of the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires since 2020 , continues to represent India in the 12-member umpiring group. Former India pacer Javagal Srinath also remains the only Indian in the Elite Panel of Match Referees .

The ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees (2026–27) includes: Jeff Crowe (New Zealand), Ranjan Madugalle (Sri Lanka), Andrew Pycroft (Zimbabwe), Richie Richardson (West Indies), and Javagal Srinath (India).

The ICC Elite Panel of Umpires (2026–27) comprises: Kumar Dharmasena, Christopher Gaffaney, Adrian Holdstock, Richard Illingworth, Richard Kettleborough, Nitin Menon, Allahuddien Paleker, Ahsan Raza, Paul Reiffel, Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid, Rodney Tucker, and Alex Wharf.

The Umpire Selection Panel , headed by ICC General Manager Cricket Wasim Khan , also included former English referee Mike Riley , ex-umpire coach Peter Manuel , and commentator Sanjay Manjrekar , who collectively reviewed global umpiring performances before confirming the unchanged panels.

The ICC said the continuity of the panels ensures stability and assurance for players, teams, and fans , maintaining uniform officiating standards in international cricket.