Ex-U19 Teammates Reunite: Kohli Plays, Srivastava Umpires in IPL

Virat Kohli, who led India to victory in the 2008 ICC Under-19 World Cup, starts a new chapter in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Meanwhile, former U19 teammate Tanmay Srivastava enters the league in a different capacity, making his debut as an umpire.

According to the Times of India, Srivastava, 35, secured an umpiring role in IPL 2025. He was India’s top scorer in the 2008 U19 World Cup final but did not follow the same career trajectory as Kohli. Despite earning a contract with Punjab Kings after the U19 success, his professional playing career did not progress as expected.

“I realized I had reached my peak as a player,” Srivastava told TOI. “I was far from making it to the IPL as a cricketer. I had to decide whether to extend my playing career or pursue a longer second innings in the sport.”

Srivastava retired at 30 while captaining Uttarakhand, having previously played for Uttar Pradesh. He sought alternative roles within cricket. Although not yet assigned on-field duties in IPL 2025, he remains hopeful for opportunities.

“I stay in touch with Virat, but I had to make practical career choices,” Srivastava said. “I spoke to Rajiv Shukla about contributing to cricket beyond playing. He was surprised as I was only 30, but we explored options. I completed a Level 2 coaching course at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), but I realized my ceiling would be as a fielding coach. That’s when I shifted my focus to umpiring.”

Balancing multiple roles, including talent scouting for RCB and coaching at the NCA, Srivastava prepared for umpiring exams. He acknowledged the challenges of transitioning into officiating.

“Studying for umpiring was demanding. I stayed up late to understand the laws and their applications,” he said. “The board is encouraging young players to take up umpiring instead of relying solely on experienced officials with theoretical knowledge.”