The International Cricket Council (ICC) has unveiled the match officials' roster for the 2025 Champions Trophy group stage, with experienced umpires Paul Reiffel and Richard Illingworth assigned to the high-stakes India-Pakistan encounter. Key Appointments The February 23 subcontinental showdown in Dubai will see: Tournament opening The championship's return after an eight-year hiatus begins February 19 in Karachi, with Richard Kettleborough and Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid officiating the Pakistan-New Zealand opener. Joel Wilson, Alex Wharf and Andrew Pycroft complete the opening day's officiating team. Also On Bhaskar English | Elite Indian officials skip Champions Trophy in Pakistan:Nitin Menon cites 'personal reasons', Javagal Srinath requests for leave India's Schedule India's group stage matches will be officiated by: Venue distribution The 12 group stage matches are spread across: Rotation of experienced officials The tournament features a balanced rotation of experienced officials, with veterans like Kettleborough, Wilson and Dharmasena sharing duties across venues. Match referee responsibilities are divided among Andrew Pycroft, David Boon and Ranjan Madugalle.Original Article