‘Learnt a lot about my own character, how I behave under pressure’ - Nitin Menon reflects on his umpiring experience ahead of Ashes debut

Indian umpire Nitin Menon reflected on his prior experience as a match official ahead of his debut in the eagerly-anticipated Ashes series. The umpire is expected to officiate in the last three Ashes Tests, slated to begin on Thursday, July 6.

Notably, Nitin was inducted into the ICC Elite Panel in June 2020, but did majority of India's home games due to COVID-19 travel restrictions which was put in place for foreigners. However, he got to officiate in a few T20 World Cup matches in UAE and Australia and was part of the umpiring team for England’s home series against South Africa.

With plenty of experience, Nitin reflected on his career and explained how he has flourished as an umpire ahead of his debut in the Ashes. He further added that umpiring at home has helped him handle the pressure created by the players. 

"It has been an amazing experience working in 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 best match officials and players has added to my umpiring experience. I have learnt a lot about my own character, how I behave under pressure, so lots of positives," Nitin told in an interview with PTI.

They always try to get those 50-50 decisions in favour of them: Menon

In his interesting take Menon further said that officiating at home is quite tough. Citing the reason that the Indian players create a lot of pressure during the matches to get those half chances in their favour. But remaining focussed in those high-pressure situations is the key to flourish for any umpire is what Menon believes in.

"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. 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," Menon concluded.

Nitin Menon has officiated in 102 international matches which include 18 Tests, 44 ODIs and 40 T20Is. Meanwhile, the arch-rivals- England and Australia will be raring to kick-start the World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle with a series win in the Ashes.