In a symbolic step to go ahead, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has decided the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup will be officiated entirely by women officials. The ODI will kick off at the end of this month in India and Sri Lanka.
The tournament opens on 30th September in Guwahati, with the hosts, India, taking on Sri Lanka in the curtain-raiser.
For India, the moment is even more special. Former cricketers Vrinda Rathi, N Janani and Gayathri Venugopalan will be part of the umpiring team, while GS Laksmi, India’s own trailblazer and the world’s first-ever female match referee, will feature in the four-member referee panel.
The ICC noted that Claire Polosak, Jacqueline Williams and Sue Redfern will be making their third appearance as officials at a Women’s World Cup, while Lauren Agenbag and Kim Cotton will be taking charge for the second time.
“The inclusion of an all-women panel of match officials is not only a major milestone but also a powerful reflection of the ICC’s unwavering commitment to advancing gender equity across cricket,” ICC Chairman Jay Shah said.
“This development goes beyond symbolic value. It is about visibility, opportunity, and the creation of meaningful role models who can inspire future generations.” Eight international teams will compete in the tournament. The tournament will take place around five venues, including Colombo, and draw a conclusion on 2nd November.
Officials: Match referees: Trudy Anderson, Shandre Fritz, GS Lakshmi, Michell Pereira.
Umpires: Lauren Agenbag, Candace la Borde, Kim Cotton, Sarah Dambanevana, Shathira Jakir Jesy, Kerrin Klaste, Janani N, Nimali Perera, Claire Polosak, Vrinda Rathi, Sue Redfern, Eloise Sheridan, Gayathri Venugopalan, Jacqueline Williams.
