Standing in KPL a great experience, says Shavir Tarapore

Umpire Shavir Tarapore (L) measures the light as his colleague Billy Doctrove (R)

Cricket has come a long way from the days of canvas stuffed with cotton and bamboo sticks for pads! With the times of change constantly blowing, rules have been bent to the hilt to make it a batsman’s game.

Nevertheless, bowlers have become smarter and innovative too… so has technology.

Technology has certainly added value to the game but has it also become a hindrance for umpires… more so in the most sought out format, the T20 SAGA.

Former International Cricket Council (ICC) Elite Panel Umpire, Shavir Tarapore takes us through his experience for the Men in Black Flannels officiating in a T20 contest.

How challenging is it to stand in a T20 contest?

It is certainly challenging considering it is a faster format of the game, actually the fastest right now. It attracts more crowds than the 50 overs and longer varieties. Most T20 games are full houses.

There not really any pressure standing in a T20 contest. Yes, you have to think on your feet, react instantly and you do not have time for a comeback.

Does the presence of technology add pressure to the job?

Personally I don’t feel it. I have worked with technology for a long time now. Technology around does not really matter. It is actually a tool that helps, a good thing to have. The presence of technology is at the back of the mind and the good and bad of an umpire can be gauged. But at the end of the day, it is good to have someone (Third umpire) to assist, especially for close calls, boundaries etc.

How difficult is it to reverse a decision based on technology?

We are there to conduct a game in a fair manner. If something has gone wrong why not use the assistance of technology to set it right. Most times the decision stays and there are few instances or percentage when on-field decisions are reversed. It is a confidence booster.

Does the presence of star players (Real Big Names) act as a deterrent?

Not for me. Maybe some do feel it. Having said that, I guess there is a slight inhibition that might prevail at the start, but once the game gets rolling the flow comes too.

Factors that make KPL more appealing and enjoyable?

In a nutshell, for all involved, there is a result in a very short duration, happens so fast. For an umpire I would say it can be more relaxing too. There are no too many close in fielders which means no crucial decisions are required.

The KPL is a good experience for the next level of umpires. All are on the same plane (Board umpires from Karnataka stood in all matches last year) and have experience enough to handle KPL contests.

It is fun through the League and under the brand of KPL loads of talent are unearthed and it is a great experience. It also helps our families and friends to see us on TV, not to forget some of our worst critics!