Tuesday 27 / May / 2025
MUSCAT: Earlier this month, in a quiet yet historic moment for Omani sport, Meera Bhanushali stepped onto the field to officiate the opening game of the T20I series between Oman and Bahrain at the Oman Cricket Academy Ground in Al Amerat — becoming the first woman from Oman to umpire an international cricket match.
“It didn’t feel like anything special when I walked out to the middle,” Meera recalled. “But after the game, when it sunk in that I had just become the first woman from Oman to officiate at this level, it felt incredible. I’m very proud to have reached this milestone.”
That pride was reinforced almost instantly. Her first major decision — a leg-before-wicket call — came at a critical juncture and proved both correct and game-shaping. “To have your first major call stand firm gives you a huge sense of confidence,” she said.
From player to umpire
Meera’s connection to cricket began at the age of six. Between 2010 and 2014, she represented Oman’s national women’s team, including an overseas tour to Kuwait. “There weren’t many facilities for girls back then. We played on matting wickets, shared kits, and had very limited exposure,” she said.
But even after she stopped playing, her passion never faded. “I couldn’t walk away from the game. I love it too much.”
That love turned into a new purpose in 2018, when she enrolled in her first umpiring course offered by Oman Cricket. “It was a big switch, but it felt right. I wanted to stay involved in the game and contribute in any way I could.”
In July 2024, her dedication paid off as she became the first woman from Oman to earn an ICC Level 1 umpiring certification — paving the way for her T20I debut.
Over the past year, Meera has stood in nearly 45 top-tier men’s matches, including A Division and Premier Division league games. “I didn’t face any gender bias,” she said. “Oman Cricket has been incredibly supportive. The players, the officials — everyone has treated me with respect.”
She credits much of her journey to the late Kanak Khimji, former chairman of Oman Cricket. “He was the first person to encourage me when I was just a girl with a bat in hand. I owe him a lot.”
She also acknowledged current chairman Pankaj Khimji, Chief Development Officer Duleep Mendis, Treasurer Alkesh Joshi, senior international umpire Rahul Asher, her umpiring colleagues and the entire Oman Cricket board. “Their backing has meant everything. They never saw me as a female umpire — just as an umpire.”
Wearing two hats
Outside the boundary line, Meera works as a manager in a shipping logistics firm. “In both jobs, decision-making is key,” she said. “You need to assess situations quickly and fairly, often under pressure. That’s something I enjoy.”
Though unused to the spotlight, she embraces her role as a pioneer. “Honestly, I’m not someone who likes the limelight. But if my story can inspire more girls in Oman to take up cricket — not just as players, but in other roles too — I’m happy.”
“There are so many more opportunities now than when I started. Girls play on turf wickets, have their own gear, better coaching and more visibility. It’s heartening to see women’s cricket finally getting the attention it deserves.”
Meera hopes her journey will encourage others to chase their cricketing dreams. “If you love the game and are willing to work hard, nothing can stop you. Grab the opportunities that come your way — the sky's the limit.”
Cricket is a family affair. “My mother and father are huge fans,” she smiled. “My sister doesn’t like the game at all,” she laughed, “but she’s always been supportive, along with my parents. I owe them a lot.”
Looking ahead, Meera is determined to grow. “I hope to get more international assignments and keep improving. It’s a responsibility I take seriously.”
From dusty practice nets to the international stage, Meera’s journey is one of quiet courage and trailblazing spirit. In raising her finger, she’s lifted the aspirations of a new generation of girls in Oman.
Pathway to the pitch for women in Oman
Oman Cricket provides perfect platform for aspiring women umpires and coaches in Oman. Interested women can start by completing online ICC modules through the EdApp platform. This foundation step is followed by in-person training sessions under the Oman Cricket system. Umpires gain real-time experience in domestic T20s, while coaches shadow senior staff in academy sessions, working directly with young cricketers. The structured pathway is designed to build knowledge, confidence, and practical skills, paving the way for advancement to higher levels within domestic and regional cricket.
