NEW DELHI: Known for his calm temperament and accurate decisions on the cricket field, former Indian umpire Anil Chaudhary needs no introduction. In an exclusive conversation with Sports Yaari, Chaudhary opened up on several topics - including the ODI retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
Chaudhary was recently seen in a different avatar during IPL 2025, where he did commentary in the Haryanvi language. His last appearance as an international umpire came during the India-Australia ODI series in 2023.
On Rohit & Kohli's ODI retirement
Speaking on the much-discussed retirements of India's ODI captain Rohit Sharma and former skipper Virat Kohli, Chaudhary said:
"This should be a personal decision for both of them. As long as they are fit, in form, and have the desire to play, they should continue. Both of them have won countless matches for India and taken the game forward to new heights."
He further added, "For players of this stature, I don't think we even need to question such things. The longer they play for India, the better it is for the country."
A decorated umpiring career
Anil Chaudhary’s umpiring journey has been remarkable. He has officiated in 12 Tests, 49 ODIs, 64 T20Is, and 131 IPL matches. With such numbers, he is among the four most experienced Indian umpires in history.
Interestingly, his international career had a unique symmetry - he both began and ended his career with India-Australia matches.
On his association with CLT10
It's a different experience, and I had never officiated in a tennis ball match before. The way Ross Taylor batted was amazing, smashing six sixes in one over. If you adjust, you can play this format as well.
This is a new trend in India - many people are starting to play it, especially in the corporate world. Ultimately, it's just another shape of cricket, and it feels good, we're enjoying it. You can see the energy and excitement, even celebrities are playing. In a way, it also helps with fitness."
