JOHANNESBURG, March 21: Veteran umpires David Shepherd of England and West Indies’ Steve Bucknor will take charge of the World Cup final here on Sunday.

It will be the third time in a row the two have officiated the World Cup final.

The TV umpire will be Rudi Koertzen of South Africa, Billy Bowden of New Zealand will be fourth umpire with Ranjan Madugalle of Sri Lanka the match referee.

International Cricket Council (ICC) general manager David Richardson said the pair had fully justified their selection, based on the standards they had shown throughout the World Cup.

“David and Steve have both had outstanding tournaments, confirming their standing as two of the best and most experienced umpires in the game,” said Richardson.

“Together with Rudi Koertzen, Billy Bowden and Ranjan Madugalle as referee, they will form an excellent team for the final.

“A special mention should be made of Billy Bowden, who came to the World Cup as a member of the International panel and has ended it as one of the best performers of the entire tournament.”—AFP