Simon Taufel on ‘scrutiny’ of officiating in India-Pakistan matches – You had individuals with machine weapons guarding you

Simon Taufel received the ICC Umpire of the Year award 5 instances and final officiated in a global match approach again in 2012.

Simon Taufel. Courtesy: Reuters

HIGHLIGHTSTaufel received the ICC Umpire of the Year 5 instancesTaufel bid goodbye to worldwide umpiring in 2012Taufel at all times garnered praises for his work

Former worldwide umpire Simon Taufel talked in regards to the environment at a cricket venue whereas officiating in matches between India and Pakistan. Taufel, who received the award for the ICC Umpire of the Year 5 instances from 2004 to 2008, mentioned that “presidential-level security” was in place throughout the matches between the 2 Asian Giants.

The 51-year-old Taufel mentioned that amidst all the safety throughout the high-voltage matches, it was essential to give attention to the duty.

“The India-Pakistan clashes came with added scrutiny and expectations because the game is being analyzed by all the armchair experts,” Taufel was quoted as saying.

“You had people with machine guns guarding you and presidential-level security was assigned to the teams. You have to remain grounded as I tried my level best to focus on the task ahead and take things one ball at a time,” he acknowledged.

India and Pakistan solely participate in tournaments, organized by the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). Due to political tensions between the 2 nations, they don’t have interaction in bilateral affairs.

Back in 2012, Taufel bid adieu to worldwide umpiring after being deemed as top-of-the-line in his subject. Taufel mentioned that he misses the thrill of officiating in massive matches, however sounded grateful for spending sufficient time together with his household.

“I miss being part of the excitement of international cricket, but I don’t miss the travel and time away from family. I certainly don’t miss the scrutiny. It is now time to help the new generation and I am loving every bit of that,” he added.