A Ranji Trophy clash at Palam in Delhi threw up a rare spectacle – over 1,100 runs in under four days, three big centuries, and a unique experience for an Australian umpire. As part of the 2026-27 BCCI-Cricket Australia Umpire Exchange Programme, Australian umpire Ben Treloar is officiating in two Ranji Trophy games in India, while India’s Parashar Joshi will officiate in the Sheffield Shield and One-Day Cup in Australia. In an exclusive chat with NDTV, the award-winning umpire spoke about learning in foreign conditions, the challenge of flat Ranji tracks, and the accuracy of Indian spinners.
The great thing is being put under pressure in different conditions and learning more about yourself,” Treloar said. On the opportunity : “It’s incredibly challenging to come into a foreign environment. It’s first-class cricket here in India. It’s been challenging but a lot of fun. On the difference between Indian and Australian pitches : “This black soil pitch [Palam Ground, Delhi] stayed low as the game progressed and didn’t break up at all. Standing at one end for four days with only four overs at the other end was a new experience. In Australia, we change ends within the first couple of days.”
It was also a personal first : “First time I’ve umpired an innings where a team scored 650. The other team then scored 460-odd. Because conditions have more bounce and grass, so spinners come in later, “In Australia, we generally see more quicks.
that doesn’t mean it’s easy While it may be flat. I was really looking forward to being put under pressure by spinners here. In Mumbai, with red soil, I expect more bounce and turn. On nerves before Ranji debut : “Oh yeah, slightly. Good nerves, anticipation. We came four days early to acclimatise. Driving to the ground on day one, I was excited. Once that first over is done, you’re into another game of cricket, trying to be fair to all players. He praised the camaraderie among match officials : “We had a great PCT with Vinod, Arjun and the match referee. So welcoming. It made for a seamless transition.”
