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

A Historic Milestone for Bangladeshi Cricket Officiating

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially unveiled its distinguished list of match officials for the highly anticipated 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup, set to take place in the cricketing heartlands of England and Wales. Among the elite group of professionals chosen to oversee the tournament, Bangladeshi umpire Shathira Jakir Jessy has earned a well-deserved place, marking a significant milestone for her career and a proud moment for her nation. She stands as the sole representative from Bangladesh, showcasing the growing influence and quality of Bangladeshi officiating on the global stage.

An All-Female Panel of Distinction

Demonstrating its ongoing commitment to promoting gender inclusivity and excellence in sports, the ICC has appointed an all-female panel of match officials for the third consecutive Women’s T20 World Cup. This year’s roster comprises 18 highly skilled individuals, including 14 umpires and four match referees, all tasked with maintaining the integrity and high standards of the sport throughout the competition.

The selection process reflects a blend of experience and emerging talent. Out of the 18 officials, nine have retained their positions from the 2024 edition, signaling consistency and reliability. Meanwhile, four individuals are set to make their highly anticipated Women’s T20 World Cup debut: Candace La Borde, Gayathri Venugopalan, Kerrin Klaaste, and Bangladesh’s very own Shathira Jakir Jessy.

Jessy’s Journey to the World Stage

Shathira Jakir Jessy’s appointment is not a stroke of luck, but rather the culmination of consistent performance and dedication to the craft of umpiring. Having previously officiated at the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup in India, she has already demonstrated her capability to handle high-pressure environments at the international level. The 2026 T20 World Cup will mark her inaugural appearance as an umpire in the tournament’s T20 format, adding another prestigious chapter to her growing career portfolio.

Tournament Overview

The 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup promises to be a gripping spectacle, featuring 33 matches played across England and Wales. The tournament is scheduled to commence on June 12, with the ultimate final showdown set for July 5. Fans in Bangladesh have double the reason to follow the tournament, as the Bangladesh women’s national cricket team will also be competing, having secured their spot by winning the qualifiers to join the 12-team field.

The Full Official Panel

The professionalism displayed by these women is vital to the growth of the game. Below are the esteemed officials appointed by the ICC:

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 toward England and Wales for this event, the presence of Shathira Jakir Jessy serves as a testament to the hard work and dedication required to reach the pinnacle of the sport. Her journey continues to inspire aspiring umpires across South Asia and beyond, reinforcing the vital role that match officials play in the beauty and fairness of cricket.