Umpiring in India or in any sport that involves the Indian cricket team is certainly not the easiest of jobs. The country’s massive following attracts more attention to the sport than any other cricket match in the world. A small mistake wreaks havoc on social media and leads to huge criticism and debate across platforms. However, Nitin Menon says that for him the pressure does not come from outside the field but from the big stars of Team India.
During the Kovid restrictions, Menon was given a lot of duty at home and that too when two T20 World Cups were played in UAE and Australia. Overall, Menon has now officiated in 15 Tests, 24 ODIs and 20 T20Is since June 2020 after being included in the ICC Elite Panel. (Joe Root vs Virat Kohli: England batsman has done better than King Kohli in last 3 years)
Menon, who is part of the umpires group that will officiate in the Ashes, revealed how the Indian cricket team’s high-pressure games helped them become a member of the ICC Elite Panel. (IND vs AUS: ‘I would have given out’, Virat Kohli’s cheeky style on Nitin Menon went viral – see)
“When India plays in India there is a lot of hype, many big stars in the Indian team always try to put pressure on you, they always try to take those 50-50 decisions in their favor but if we are in control We’re under pressure ourselves, so we don’t pay attention to what they’re trying to do.”
“It just shows that I am strong enough to handle any situation rather than succumbing to the pressure created by the players. It has given me a lot of confidence.”
“It has also been a big responsibility to lead the Indian international panel of umpires at home. I didn’t have much experience initially (when they entered the ICC Elite Panel) but the last three years have helped me grow as an umpire. helped,” he said. The only Indian in the elite panel
“It will be a great series. I was in England last year when they hosted South Africa. I could really see what ‘Baseball’ is all about. So I know what to expect. They are playing Tests Redefining cricket.” (IND vs PAK rivalry will take place in Canada as Harbhajan Singh, Shahid Afridi join Global T20 tournament)
“Stakes will be high but for me every match is a game between bat and ball. Will keep it simple just watch the ball and take decisions accordingly.”
“I’m also very excited about it because it was my dream. I couldn’t do the last Ashes as it happened during COVID. So really looking forward to it and hope I do my best there.”