Michael Gough and Joel Wilson added to ICC Elite Panel

Both umpires, who have ample experience officiating at the international level were elevated by a selection panel consisting of Geoff Allardice, ICC general manager, Sanjay Manjerekar, former cricketer and commentator, and the duo of Ranjan Madugalle and David Boon, both match referees.

Gough has officiated in nine Tests, 59 ODIs and 14 T20Is and on the other hand, Wilson has stood in 13 tests, 63 ODIs and 26 T20Is.

Adrian Griffith, ICC Senior Manager - Umpires and Referees: "Being an elite

official is an extremely challenging job,” said Adrian Griffith, ICC senior manager, Umpires and Referees. “Every decision is scrutinized by millions of fans and each match official is subject to rigorous ongoing performance assessments throughout the year.”

In the recent past, the development of DRS, multiple camera angles, slow motion replays and other technological developments have meant that the scrutiny surrounding decisions have increased ten-fold.

"We are fortunate to have some fantastic officials who are able to withstand the pressures of the job and deliver consistently on the international stage. Michael and Joel are deserving additions to the Emirates ICC Elite (Panel). The panel of Umpires and I wish them all the best for the coming season and for the future."

The other members of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Umpires are Aleem Dar, Kumar Dharmasena, Marais Erasmus, Chris Gaffaney, Richard Illingworth, Richard Kettleborough, Nigel Llong, Bruce Oxenford, Paul Reiffel and Rod Tucker.