English Duo to Oversee World Cup Showdown
The English pair has been assigned the crucial on-field responsibilities for the much-anticipated World Cup final.
Second World Cup Final for Kettleborough
For Kettleborough, this will be his second time officiating in a World Cup final, having previously done so in 2015. His partner in that match was Kumar Dharmasena. The 2015 final attracted more than 93,000 spectators, a figure that is expected to be surpassed this Sunday as the host nation aims to recreate their 2011 victory and lift the World Cup trophy on home ground.
Illingworth’s First Final as a Match Official
Illingworth will also be making his second appearance in a World Cup final, although this will be his first time as a match official. He previously played in the 1992 Cricket World Cup final.
Illingworth and Kettleborough’s Journey to the Top
Both Illingworth and Kettleborough were elevated to the ICC International List on the same day in November 2009. They have both served as on-field umpires in this week’s semi-finals, with Illingworth overseeing India’s triumph over New Zealand in Mumbai, and Kettleborough managing Australia’s nail-biting victory against South Africa in Kolkata.
Award-Winning Umpires
Both umpires have had illustrious careers, each having won the David Shepherd Trophy, an accolade given to the ICC’s Umpire of the Year. Kettleborough claimed the award three consecutive times from 2013 to 2015, while Illingworth received the honor in 2019 and 2022.
Additional Match Officials for the Final
Other officials for Sunday’s crucial final include Joel Wilson, who will serve as the third umpire, fourth umpire Chris Gaffaney, and match referee Andy Pycroft. All were also part of the officiating teams in the semi-finals.