Icc chair jay

The International Cricket Council: The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday made two new additions to its prestigious Elite Panel of Umpires, with South Africa’s Allahudien Paleker and England’s Alex Wharf making the cut. The duo replaces Michael Gough and Joel Wilson in the latest reshuffle.

Paleker, a former first-class cricketer, has steadily climbed the ranks of international umpiring, having officiated in four Tests, 23 ODIs, and 67 T20Is in men’s cricket, along with 17 women’s internationals. His resume includes key roles at major ICC tournaments such as the Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 and the Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024.

Wharf, a former England international who played 13 ODIs, has transitioned seamlessly into umpiring after a 16-year first-class playing career. With experience in seven Tests, 33 ODIs, and 45 T20Is as an on-field official, he has also stood in high-profile events like the ICC Men’s and Women’s Cricket World Cups, the T20 World Cups in 2024, and the upcoming Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.