The job of an umpire is the most toughest, be it in the game Cricket, Tennis, Table Tennis , badminton or any other sport. Today, slow motion cameras and electronic devices have come to the rescue of Umpires, while taking a decision, in case of doubt. But, still Umpire’s decision is final in many cases. There is a big demand for Umpires during important tournaments .
Sunil Babras umpiring a match
Recently, during the 2nd state ranking veterans Table Tennis tournament, many Young umpires were on duty at MIG Cricket Club , Bandra. And, as this was a weekend tournament, there was heavy schedule for all matches in different age groups in Men and Women. The organizers could manage the schedule on Saturday, holding some of the matches at Khar Gymkhana, but on Sunday all matches were played at MIG Club, with availability of limited tables. And therefore, the organizers couldn’t afford to take lunch break . So, the Umpires were asked to adjust their lunch time.
As a result of this, some of the matches were announced, but there were no umpires available. At this stage, former international Sunil Babras, came to the rescue of organizers and chief referee. He voluntarily declared that he would umpire one of the matches announced. Sinil carried the score sheet of the match between Suhas Dandekar & Jeetu Mawani in 60+ Men’s section and walked towards table no. 1, where this match was to be played. After completing formalities he started the match and helped the organizers to umpire one full match. And, this was certainly a very good gesture from Sunil, who during the later part of the day, won the finals of 50+ men’s singles.