Ex-umpire Piloo Reporter’s pleasing personality stood out for cricketers

Piloo Reporter

Former Test umpire Piloo Reporter, who one half of the first set of neutral umpires (VK Ramaswamy was the other umpire), passed away on Sunday morning in Thane.

Reporter, 84, had been suffering from cerebral contusions and was bedridden. He is survived by his wife and two daughters.

Also Read: Ex-Test umpire Piloo Reporter no more at 84

Reporter became extremely popular with his signature boundary declarations during the 1992 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

He was known for his sense of humour and pleasing personality, but brooked no nonsense from players who displayed their aggressive nature to him. He once used an interesting analogy while describing umpiring. "It is a job very much like traffic policing. The traffic must move, as also the game," he said.

Former India batsman, VVS Laxman paid tribute to Reporter through a Tweet: "Sad to hear about the passing away of Shri Piloo Reporter, the first among neutral umpires. His eccentric boundary signals were a delight to watch. Heartfelt condolences to his family and friends."

A minute's silence was observed by hosts Parsi Gymkhana and MIG Cricket Club in honour of the departed cricket character during their Kanga League game on Sunday morning.