The countdown to the most anticipated clash of the Asia Cup 2025 has just become even more intense. The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) on Monday confirmed the list of match officials for the India–Pakistan group stage showdown, scheduled for September 14 at the Dubai International Stadium.
The Big Names in Charge
The high-voltage encounter will be overseen by some of the most seasoned officials in the game. Sri Lanka’s Ruchira Palliyaguruge and Bangladesh’s Masudur Rahman will be the on-field umpires, while Afghanistan’s Ahmad Pakteen has been named as the TV umpire. His compatriot Izatullah Safi will serve as the fourth umpire. The match referee’s role has been entrusted to Zimbabwe’s Andy Pycroft, one of ICC’s most experienced officials.
Complete List of Officials:
- On-field Umpires: Ruchira Palliyaguruge (Sri Lanka), Masudur Rahman (Bangladesh)
- TV Umpire: Ahmad Pakteen (Afghanistan)
- Fourth Umpire: Izatullah Safi (Afghanistan)
- Match Referee: Andy Pycroft (Zimbabwe)
Experience at the Helm
The appointment of Palliyaguruge and Rahman reflects ACC’s strategy of deploying highly experienced umpires for matches that attract global attention. Palliyaguruge, 57, has officiated in over 160 international games, including the 2019 ICC Men’s ODI World Cup and the 2022 Women’s World Cup. In July 2025, he was felicitated by Sri Lanka Cricket for completing 100 ODIs as an umpire.
Rahman, meanwhile, has already made a mark with more than 70 international matches under his belt. He was also on duty during the 2022 Asia Cup final in Dubai, proving his capability in handling pressure-packed contests.
ACC’s Criteria for Appointments
The ICC and ACC follow strict criteria when assigning umpires for multi-nation events. The officials must be:
- Independent of the countries involved.
- Among the best available for the assignment.
- High-performing in recent tournaments.
- Selected with workload balance in mind.
Given the political backdrop and historic rivalry between India and Pakistan, the decision to go with officials of proven calibre highlights the importance of smooth conduct.
Spotlight on September 14
The India–Pakistan clash isn’t just another group-stage game—it’s the showpiece fixture of the Asia Cup. With the Dubai International Stadium set to be packed to the rafters, and millions more tuning in globally, every decision will be under the microscope. The ACC’s appointment of Richardson and Pycroft as panel heads, alongside seasoned on-field officials, shows just how seriously the governing body is taking this contest.
