On Monday, Jamalodien Palekar, 70, reached The Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg long before play began on Day One of the second Test between India and South Africa. He was most eager to see his son, Allahudien, 44, making his debut as an international umpire in the Test. Owing to the pandemic, the ICC (International Cricket Council) have permitted home umpires to officiate in international fixtures.  

Interestingly, Jamalodien, his brother and two nephews are also umpires. “It’s an honour to see my son standing in his first Test. I am very proud of him. I did not get enough opportunities to further my umpiring career, but I have passed on all my expertise to help him fulfil his dream,” a proud Jamalodien told mid-day over the phone from the President’s Box at The Wanderers.