Javagal Srinath and Nitin Menon to Miss 2025 ICC Champions Trophy
In a notable development ahead of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, which is set to take place in Pakistan and Dubai from February 19 to March 9, esteemed match referee and former Indian fast bowler Javagal Srinath, along with umpire Nitin Menon, will not be participating in the tournament.
Nitin Menon’s Decision
Nitin Menon has opted out of the tournament citing “personal reasons.” Given the tournament’s regulations that mandate the use of neutral umpires, Menon’s absence means he will not be officiating in any matches involving India, even those held in Dubai.
Srinath’s Leave Request
On the other hand, Javagal Srinath has requested a leave of absence from the International Cricket Council (ICC). He shared, “I had quite a few days away from home in the month of November, December, and January,” highlighting the need for a break after an extensive stretch of officiating.
Impact on the Tournament
The absence of these prominent officials has raised eyebrows, particularly as both Srinath and Menon are key figures in the ICC Elite Panels—Srinath as a match referee and Menon as an umpire. Their names were notably missing from the ICC’s recently released list of match officials for the tournament.
New Umpires and Referees
The ICC has appointed an experienced panel for the Champions Trophy, including familiar names like Richard Kettleborough and Kumar Dharmasena, who have previously officiated in other significant tournaments. David Boon, Ranjan Madugalle, and Andrew Pycroft will serve as match referees.
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