One of India's top umpires at the moment, Nitin Menon opened up about the pressure he faces from Indian players while officiating a match in India.
Menon was included in ICC's Elite Panel in June 2020. He officiated in most of India's home series during the COVID-19 pandemic and was also in charge of some of the group-stage matches during the 2021 T20 World Cup in UAE.
Bet here on The Ashes 2023 England vs Australia series (selected markets)
He has thus far officiated 15 Tests, 24 ODIs and 20 T20Is since his induction into ICC's elite panel.
Speaking to PTI in an interview, the Indian umpire said,
It has been an amazing experience working in the Indian sub-continent in the first two years, doing Test matches and then getting to officiate in T20 World Cups in Australia and Dubai. I am working with the best match officials and players have added to my umpiring experience. I have learned a lot about my own character, and how I behave under pressure, so lots of positives.
When India play in India there is a lot of hype, lot of big stars in the Indian team 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.
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.
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 have helped me grow as an umpire. Like the players, nothing better than match fitness for umpires.
Menon is expected to be a part of the umpiring panel in the last three Test matches of the ongoing Ashes series between England and Australia in England.
How to watch World Cup Qualifiers
