'Big Stars In Indian Team Always Try To Create Pressure': Indian Umpire In ICC's Elite Panel Makes Sensational Claim

ICC elite panel umpire Nitin Menon made a stunning revelation, saying that officiating India matches is a tough task as big stars of the national team always try to create pressure.

India's umpire Nitin Menon checks his light meter during play on the fourth day of the third Test cricket match between England and South Africa at The Oval, in London, on September 11, 2022.

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Indian umpire Nitin Menon has gained quite a reputation on the cricketing field over the years. He is currently a part of the Elite Panel of ICC and will officiate in the third Test of the ongoing England vs Australia Ashes 2023 Test series. In the last few years, Menon officiated majority of team India's matches played on home soil. There have been quite a few instances where Menon faced harsh criticism for his controversial decisions that didn't go in favor of Indian players, but as per the only Indian in ICC elite panel umpire, his focus is always on his job and not what others think of him outside.

Menon, in an interview with PTI, made a stunning revelation, saying that officiating India matches is a tough task as big stars of the national team always try to create pressure.

"When India play in India there is a lot of hype, 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," he said. "It just shows that I am strong enough to handle any situation rather than getting working 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 has helped me grow as an umpire," the only Indian in the elite panel exclusively told news agency PTI.

Menon will be seen in the third Test match of the five-games Ashes series.

"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.

"Stakes will be high but for me every match is a game between bat and balll. Will keep it simple just watch the ball and make decisions accordingly.

"I am very excited about it too as this was my dream. I could not do the previous Ashes as it happened during COVID. So really looking forward to it and hopefully I will give my best shot there."