Former players taking to umpiring is not a recent trend. Many have tried their hand in the past and failed to recreate the magic after donning the coat. Things however may be changing for the better. Umpiring is a tough job and it needs to be approached with dedication and professionalism. At a time where umpiring standards have dipped, the influx of former players carrying pride in their new job is a welcome trend.
Having served Karnataka and Tamil Nadu with distinction in the Ranji Trophy, Krishnaraj Srinath sees umpiring a fine opportunity to keep in close touch with the game and also give something back to the game. To be called as the fourth umpire for the recently concluded Test at Nagpur was a surprise for Srinath.
“To be honest I don’t know the selection process and I learnt it from the BCCI a week before the match. Umpiring has always been a demanding job, only it has become more rewarding now. As a former player it’s easy to understand a few intricacies. It has been a pleasant experience so far and as in any other profession the learning does not stop at any stage,” said Srinath.
Having officiated in five first class games so far, Srinath has come to understand the demands well. The Indian Bank employee will certainly get to stand in bigger games and the week he spent with the likes of Ranjan Madugalle (match referee) and Simon Taufel has prepared him well. “Simon is one of the best in business while Ranjan brings with him the experience of more than 120 Tests to his credit. It was an eye opener in more ways than one,” added Srinath.
To the causal observer, a fourth umpire’s posting is a paid holiday, Srinath begs to differ. “It is a 12- hour job and comes with its own key task areas. There is no free lunch. The job starts with knowing the ground conditions and keeping the main umpires informed. Right from mowing of grass on the outfield and attention to work done on the pitch during a match comes under the purview of the fourth umpire,” Srinath explained.
Srinath was not one to remain quiet in those four days in Nagpur. The earnestness to be involved with the conduct of the game was apparent in him. “The first thing I learnt from the experienced officials was to remain calm. The four umpires and the ICC match referee are responsible for controlling the game and addressing player demands,” he said.
Having competed with and against the likes of VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid it was only obvious the players were happy to see their old friend in a new role. “To gain the respect of the players is the biggest challenge and having played with these guys makes the job a little easier,” said Srinath. It was a happy week for the player turned umpire as he saw his best friend and former state colleague Anil Kumble win the KSCA elections and Dravid notch 191 and walk away with the man of the match award.
“It could not have been better. Anil is a straightforward person who will be totally committed to the job he undertakes. Javagal Srinath is no different. I wish them all the best,” Srinath said.
Four seasons as selector of the Tamil Nadu Ranji side and senior coach at the VB Cricket Academy, Srinath has found his calling in umpiring. For the former opening batsman his second innings has well and truly begun.