The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially announced the match officials for the upcoming three-match T20I series between Pakistan and Australia, scheduled to take place at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, from January 29 to February 1.
All three matches will begin at 4:00 PM local time, with the toss scheduled for 3:30 PM, ensuring a consistent matchday routine for fans and broadcasters.
Ali Naqvi to Lead Playing Control Team
The playing control team for the series will be led by Ali Naqvi, a member of the ICC International Panel of Match Referees. The series holds special significance for Naqvi, as the second T20I will mark his 50th match as a T20I referee.
Interestingly, Naqvi officiated his first T20I match at Gaddafi Stadium in April 2023, making this milestone appearance even more memorable at the same venue.
Experienced Umpires Appointed for On-Field Duties
Renowned ICC Elite Panel umpire Ahsan Raza will officiate as an on-field umpire in the first two T20Is, adding international experience to the series. He will be joined by Asif Yaqoob in the opening match, while Rashid Riaz will partner him during the second T20I.
For the third and final T20I, Rashid Riaz will take on on-field responsibilities alongside Nasir Hussain, ensuring continuity across the series.
Support Officials and National Elite Panel Representation
Nasir Hussain will begin the series as the third umpire and will also serve as the fourth umpire in the second T20I. Tariq Rasheed has been assigned third umpire duties for the final match.
Meanwhile, Zulfiqar Jan, a member of the PCB National Elite Panel of Umpires, will serve as the fourth umpire in the third T20I, highlighting PCB’s focus on grooming domestic officiating talent alongside experienced international officials.
The officiating lineup reflects a balanced mix of ICC-level expertise and national-level officials, ensuring high standards of match control for this highly anticipated series.
