Bengaluru: A single raised finger can change the course of history. For Karnataka’s cricket umpires, their silent yet decisive role in the game has left a lasting legacy.
The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and the Association of Cricket Umpires Karnataka (ACUK) came together on Saturday evening to celebrate these unsung heroes who upheld the spirit of the game and maintained its fairness on the international stage. The felicitation ceremony, held at Chinnaswamy Stadium, honoured their invaluable contributions.
Among the former umpires honoured were Test umpires V Vikramraju, AV Jayaprakash, Shavir Tarapore, and AL Narasimhan, as well as ODI umpires BRK Murthy, VN Kulkarni, and Nandan.
Narasimhan, born on 27 April 1940, officiated in one Test match between India and Sri Lanka in 1994 and four ODIs between 1983 and 1993. Vikramraju, born on 1 January 1934, stood in two Test matches between 1985 and 1986, including the historic second Tied Test, along with five ODIs between 1984 and 1988.
Jayaprakash umpired 13 Tests from 1997 to 2002, including Anil Kumble’s iconic 10-wicket haul, as well as 38 ODIs and seven IPL matches. Tarapore officiated in four Tests, 25 ODIs, and three T20Is, while Kulkarni stood in just two ODIs before transitioning into a coaching role for BCCI umpires.
Nandan, who began his umpiring career in the Ranji Trophy in 1999–2000, later officiated in women's ODIs, IPL matches, and international tournaments, including the 2014 Asia Cup and the 2018 U-19 World Cup, but was eventually removed from the ICC International Panel due to poor performance.
The evening was a journey through history, revisiting landmark moments featuring Karnataka’s umpires.
Among them, the 1986 tied Test between India and Australia stood out. Vikramraju, one of the on-field officials, made the decisive call that saw Maninder Singh dismissed, securing only the second tied Test in cricket history. The decision sparked debate, with some players believing there was an inside edge. However, in the absence of DRS, Vikramraju’s word was final. This match would also be his last Test, with his international career concluding in 1988.
.@ProfDeano along with umpire V Vikramraju share a light moment as they revisit the 1986 tied Test between India and Australia. Watch them share their experiences and stay tuned to Star Sports for more from the #KPL2018! #NammaKPLpic.twitter.com/C0UNekxgUH
Another unforgettable chapter revisited was Anil Kumble’s legendary 10-wicket haul against Pakistan at Feroz Shah Kotla in 1999. AV Jayaprakash, who officiated the match, was unknowingly scripting history as he raised his finger ten times. Among the dismissals, Shahid Afridi’s caught-behind decision led to on-field protests, later resolved by the match referee. The event reflected on how these umpires handled immense pressure with composure and authority.
The ceremony also brought attention to a unique statistic—Karnataka’s Shavir Tarapore officiated all three of Sachin Tendulkar’s highest ODI scores: 175, 186*, and 200. This striking coincidence reaffirmed Karnataka’s contribution to officiating in high-profile matches.
More than just decision-makers on the field, these umpires shaped the game beyond the boundary ropes. Their commitment and discipline set an example for budding umpires in Karnataka, many of whom now look to them for mentorship. As cricket continues to evolve, their legacy remains intact, influencing officiating standards across the sport.
In an era where technology-driven decisions like the Decision Review System (DRS) dominate discussions, the event shed light on the vital role umpires played before technological interventions. Karnataka’s umpires officiated in some of cricket’s most historic moments, where their judgment was final. The ceremony not only acknowledged their contributions but also highlighted the pressing need for structured training programs to ensure the next generation of officials meets global standards.
The felicitation ceremony was not just a recognition of past achievements but a testament to Karnataka’s umpiring excellence. The precision, fairness, and resilience displayed by these umpires have enriched cricket’s history, and their impact continues to inspire new generations.
As the sport evolves, their legacy stands firm—a reminder that the game’s integrity often rests in the hands of those who quietly make the toughest calls.
