In a big revelation, ICC elite Panel umpire Nitin Menon has said that big stars of Team India create pressure on the umpires to get decisions in their favour on the field. The Indian umpire, who is likely to officiate in the ongoing Ashes 2023 series between Australia and England, admitted it's a tough job to do umpiring in India as the Indian players try to turn 50-50 calls in their favour.
The 39-year-old was inducted into the panel in 2020 and so far has officiated in 15 Tests, 24 ODIs, and 20 T20Is. He has been part of last two ICC Men's T20I World Cups. Menon has also been a regular in officiating in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for quite a time now.
Although he has always been in the centre of attraction for his bold and controversial decision on the cricket field. But the senior umpire said that his focus has always been negate the outside noise and focus on the job.
“When India play in India there is a lot of hype, a lot of big stars in the Indian team they always try to create pressure on you, they always try to get those 50-50 decisions in favour of them but if we are in control of ourselves under pressure, then we don't focus on what they are trying to do,” Menon was quoted PTI.
“It just shows that I am strong enough to handle any situation rather than getting worked up by the pressure created by players. That has given me a lot of self-confidence,” he added.
Notably, Menon is the only Indian in the elite panel of ICC umpires. He mentioned that a significant amount of responsibility comes with the same but he has managed to grow in his profession over the last three years.
"Leading the Indian international panel of umpires at home has also been a big responsibility. I did not have a lot of experience initially (when he entered ICC elite panel) but the last three years has helped me grow as an umpire," said the only Indian in the elite panel.
Menon is looking forward to his dream appearance in the ongoing Ashes series. He said that he is excited to finally witness the Bazball.
“It will be a great series. I was there last year in England when they hosted South Africa. I could actually see what 'Bazball' is. So I know what to expect. Australia have a fantastic bowling line up and the England the way they are playing are redefining test cricket,” Menon concluded.
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