In a surprising turn of events, former England captain Michael Vaughan has singled out 50-year-old on-field umpire Richard Kettleborough as the standout performer in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 final between India and Australia. Despite notable displays from Australian captain Pat Cummins and opener Travis Head, Vaughan shifted the spotlight to the experienced English umpire.
The final, held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on November 19, saw Australia clinching their sixth ODI World Cup title by defeating India by six wickets. Travis Head’s remarkable century earned him the Player of the Match award.
While acknowledging the exceptional all-round performance by the Australian team, Vaughan’s unexpected choice of Kettleborough as the star of the final raised eyebrows. During a discussion with former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist, both were asked to name their star of the match. Gilchrist chose Cummins for his outstanding captaincy decisions, emphasizing strategic changes made during crucial moments.
Vaughan, in contrast, justified his selection of Kettleborough, praising the umpire’s overall contribution to the game. He highlighted Kettleborough’s decision-making during crucial moments and suggested that the outcome could have changed if his decisions were different.
“My standout performer is Richard Kettleborough, the umpire. He had an outstanding game and had his decision been different, the outcome could have changed,” said Vaughan.
Notably, India has faced defeat in every ICC World Cup final or semi-final where Kettleborough served as one of the on-field umpires. Kettleborough, alongside Richard Illingworth, officiated in the final, playing a crucial role in the umpiring decisions that shaped the intense contest between India and Australia.
