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Roly Black Becomes First Irish Umpire To Stand In A T20 World Cup Game

By IANS News February 10, 2026 • 18:32 PM View: 146

T20 World Cup Global Qualifiers: Tuesday marked a landmark moment for Irish officiating as Roly Black became the first umpire from Ireland to officiate on the field in a men’s T20 World Cup.

While Black had already been involved in the tournament in an off-field capacity, serving as a fourth umpire in two earlier fixtures, this occasion represented his first time officiating on the field at cricket’s global showpiece. His debut assignment came in the clash between the UAE and New Zealand in Chennai, India, the first of three matches he is scheduled to oversee during the tournament.

Ahead of the competition, Black spoke about the wider significance of his appointment and the responsibility he feels to create opportunities for others. “From an umpiring perspective, I see it as my responsibility for the next couple of years to try and open new doors, to try and raise the bar as far as what can be achieved for Irish umpires.”