All-Female Panel
Dubai
In a landmark development for women’s cricket, three Indians have been named in the all-female panel of match officials for the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup 2025. Former cricketer and referee GS Lakshmi, along with umpires Vrinda Rathi and Gayathri Venugopalan, will represent India in this historic line-up.
This is the first time the Women’s ODI World Cup will be officiated entirely by women. It is also the fourth global event to feature an all-female panel, following the 2022 Commonwealth Games and the last two Women’s T20 World Cups.
The 13th edition of the tournament, to be held in India from September 30, will see eight teams competing across 31 matches in 33 days. A total of 14 umpires and four referees, all with significant international experience, have been selected by the ICC.
Notable names include experienced umpires Claire Polosak, Jacqueline Williams, and Sue Redfern, each officiating their third World Cup. Lauren Agenbag and Kim Cotton, who stood in the 2022 final, return alongside Eloise Sheridan. The referee panel features Trudy Anderson, Shandre Fritz, GS Lakshmi, and Michell Pereira.
ICC Chairman Jay Shah hailed the move as a defining step for gender equality in cricket. He stressed that the initiative goes beyond symbolism, aiming to inspire future generations by providing visibility, opportunities, and role models in officiating.
He added that this chapter in women’s cricket would motivate more women worldwide to pursue careers as match officials, reshaping perceptions of leadership and excellence in the sport.
The World Cup is set to showcase not only top-class cricket but also a milestone in women’s empowerment within the game.
