Former Teammate of Virat Kohli Transitions to IPL 2025 Umpire Role Following Retirement from Playing Career | Cricket News

### Virat Kohli’s Former Teammate Transitions to IPL 2025 Umpiring Role

Virat Kohli’s journey from the triumphant 2008 Under-19 World Cup to becoming one of the all-time greats in world cricket is well-documented. However, not all of his contemporaries from that celebrated squad have enjoyed similar fortunes. A striking example is Tanmay Srivastava, a standout performer in the 2008 ICC U19 World Cup final, who has now embraced a new role in the cricketing sphere—a professional umpire in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL).

As reported by the Times of India, at the age of 35, Tanmay Srivastava has embarked on an umpiring career with the IPL. Although his batting talents secured him a position with the Punjab Kings following the U19 World Cup, his playing career did not mirror Kohli’s illustrious path. Having captained Uttarakhand and played for Uttar Pradesh, Srivastava concluded his playing chapter at the age of 30 to explore ventures beyond the player’s boundary.

In a conversation with TOI, Srivastava reflected, “I identified my potential and realized the need for a prolonged and successful second innings beyond playing. Transitioning was difficult, yet necessary.”

Though Srivastava will not immediately serve on-field in the IPL, he remains hopeful for future assignments. Demonstrating a true sportsman’s spirit, Srivastava continues to be in communication with his former teammate, Kohli, and aspires to meet him during the IPL season. He recounted, “Maintaining contact with Virat has been fulfilling, yet I needed to adopt a pragmatic approach for my own career.”

After consulting with Rajiv Shukla and exploring options beyond playing, Srivastava pursued a Level 2 coaching course at the National Cricket Academy but found his calling in umpiring. He explained, “Umpiring demands thorough understanding of the laws, and studying was an arduous late-night task. Yet, the opportunity to contribute to cricket through a different lens is rewarding.”

Srivastava’s dedication to redefining his role within cricket is evident, as he juggled responsibilities like talent scouting for Royal Challengers Bengaluru and coaching roles at the National Cricket Academy while preparing for umpiring qualifications. “The cricketing board encourages younger participants to engage in umpiring, moving away from over-reliance on theoretical knowledge,” he added, underscoring an evolving approach within the sport.

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