New Delhi: The highly anticipated IPL 2025 season is set to kick off on March 22 with an electrifying match between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). While RCB is still chasing its maiden IPL title, an exciting development has surfaced regarding one of Virat Kohli’s former teammates. Tanmay Srivastava, who once played alongside Kohli, is all set to make his debut as an umpire in the Indian Premier League.
Tanmay Srivastava’s Journey from Cricketer to Umpire
Tanmay Srivastava bid farewell to professional cricket nearly five years ago. Post-retirement, he pursued a career in umpiring and dedicated two years to completing the Level 2 umpiring course. After gaining experience officiating in domestic cricket, he has now been selected as an umpire for IPL 2025. The Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) also acknowledged his achievement by sharing a post on X (formerly Twitter).
A Unique World Record in IPL
By becoming an umpire in the IPL, Tanmay Srivastava has created a unique world record. He is among the rare players who have participated in the IPL as a cricketer and later returned to officiate in the same tournament. He was previously a part of the Punjab Kings squad from 2007 to 2009, during the time when the franchise was known as Kings XI Punjab.
Impressive Cricket Career of Tanmay Srivastava
Tanmay had an outstanding domestic cricket career before transitioning to umpiring. He played 90 First-Class matches, amassing 4,918 runs with 10 centuries and 27 half-centuries. In List A cricket, he scored 1,728 runs, including 7 centuries and 10 half-centuries. His consistent performances at the domestic level earned him recognition as a dependable batsman during his playing days.
A true player never leaves the field—just changes the game.
Wishing Tanmay Srivastava the best as he dons a new hat with the same passion!#UPCA #IPL #UP #PrideOfUP pic.twitter.com/wrRoW31OG2— UPCA (@UPCACricket) March 17, 2025
A Historic Moment for IPL 2025
As IPL 2025 approaches, all eyes will be on Tanmay Srivastava, not as a player, but as an umpire. His journey from being a batsman to officiating in one of the world’s biggest cricket tournaments is an inspiring story. Stay tuned for more updates on IPL 2025 and other exciting cricket news!