In an exclusive interview, Nitin Menon, an ICC Elite Panel umpire, sheds light on the challenges he faces while officiating matches involving the Indian cricket team.
He discusses how the pressure exerted by the team’s big stars has helped him grow personally and professionally. Menon also shares his thoughts on the upcoming Ashes series.
Growing Under Pressure: Team India’s Impact on Umpiring
Umpiring matches in India or involving the Indian team is known to be a daunting task due to the intense scrutiny and pressure from fans and players alike. Menon acknowledges that the presence of big stars in the Indian team adds to the complexity of the job. However, he sees this pressure as an opportunity for personal growth and development.
In today’s age of social media, any small umpiring error can quickly become a subject of immense criticism across various platforms. Menon recognizes the impact of social media and the increased scrutiny faced by umpires. He acknowledges that maintaining composure and self-control in the face of such pressure is crucial for making unbiased decisions.
Menon shares his experience of officiating matches during the T20 World Cups held in the UAE and Australia, as well as the England-South Africa series. These assignments provided him with valuable exposure and an opportunity to hone his skills in different environments. He reveals that the experience of officiating overseas matches has made him better equipped to handle pressure.
Leading the Way: Responsibilities as the Leader of Indian Umpires
As the leader of the Indian international panel of umpires, Menon takes his responsibilities seriously. Despite initially lacking extensive experience, he believes that the past three years have been instrumental in his growth as an umpire. Menon appreciates the support and opportunities provided to him, allowing him to develop into a reliable umpiring professional.
Looking ahead, Menon expresses his excitement about officiating in the upcoming Ashes series. Having previously umpired matches in England, he feels prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. Menon acknowledges the exceptional bowling line-up of Australia and the innovative approach to test cricket demonstrated by England.
For Menon, officiating in the Ashes series is a lifelong dream come true. Despite missing out on the previous edition due to the pandemic, he is determined to give his best performance in the upcoming series. Menon emphasizes his commitment to making unbiased decisions, focusing on the game itself, and maintaining professionalism throughout.
