Rithika Sree, a transgender cricket umpire from Salem, has carved out an inspiring journey defined by resilience, courage, and determination. Born as Muthuraja, she began her officiating career in 2021 with her local cricket association and is now actively umpiring in Coimbatore after undergoing gender-affirming surgery in 2024.
Her passion for umpiring dates back to 2019, when she was working in Mohali and closely followed Indian Premier League matches. That exposure sparked a deep interest in officiating and led her to explore the pathway from district-level panels to the Board of Control for Cricket in India structure.
“My name is Rithika Sree, and in 2019, when I was working in Mohali, I used to watch IPL matches. I had a thought to become an umpire and researched how to start. I learned that I needed to begin at the district level, then move to the state panel, and eventually reach the BCCI panel,” she said.
However, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted her career in Punjab, forcing her to return to her hometown. Undeterred, she decided to pursue her dream from Salem.
“During the lockdown, I had to return home as job opportunities were limited. That’s when I decided to focus on becoming an umpire,” she added.
Her breakthrough came after she contacted a local official who gave her the opportunity to begin.
“After returning to Salem, I contacted the district association’s umpire committee chairman, Jayaraman. He promised me a chance, and that was the beginning of my umpiring career,” she said.
The early phase of her journey was challenging, marked by criticism, fear, and self-doubt. But the support of mentors proved crucial in helping her stay on course. Over time, she also found the courage to share her gender identity, eventually receiving acceptance and encouragement.
“At first, I was afraid to reveal my identity because I thought I might lose my job. But Jayaraman’s family supported me, and eventually, I was encouraged to move forward with my transition,” Rithika recalled.
In 2024, she underwent gender-affirming surgery in Coimbatore and informed the association of her transition, seeking permission to continue her career.
“After the surgery, I informed the committee and requested an opportunity to continue umpiring. I was asked to wait while discussions took place,” she said.
Although she initially faced hurdles, including restricted access to grounds, things gradually improved with support from the local cricket body.
“In the beginning, I was not allowed on the grounds, but with the support of the Coimbatore District Cricket Association, I was eventually given permission. Their belief in me helped me resume officiating in league matches,” she said.
Today, Rithika Sree continues to officiate in local leagues, standing as a powerful example of perseverance and progress in Indian cricket, while inspiring many with her journey beyond the boundary lines.
