The high-intensity T20 World Cup semi-final between India and England at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday was a treat for around 35,000 spectators at the ground. It was also a very special occasion for cricket fans of Shiv village in Ratnagiri district as South Africa-based Allahuddien Paleker, whose roots are in the Konkan region, was one of the on-field umpires for the crucial game. England’s Chris Gaffaney was Paleker’s partner at the other end.

Paleker’s cousin brother, Bakhtiyar Hamid, 45, who played ‘A’ Division club cricket in Mumbai, representing Young Friends CC, reckoned it was a proud moment for the entire Ratnagiri district to see one of their own officiating at the Wankhede on Thursday.