Calcutta: For 18 years, Sadanand Viswanath has been one of the prominent umpires of India. Yet, he is yet to officiate in an international match.

With the ICC’s elite panel of umpires not featuring a single name from India Viswanath feels that both the ICC and the BCCI have much to do.

In the city for his umpiring assignment in the Vijay Hazare Trophy zonal matches, Viswanath said: “We will be privileged if the BCCI, which is one of the strongest Boards, does something for us.

“I feel the ICC, too, should come up with a policy that makes it easier for cricketers-turned-umpires to find a place in the elite panel. But of course, the ICC should help only those that are doing a good job,” the former India wicket-keeper added.

However, Viswanath remains optimistic about featuring among the elite. “I don’t believe in negative thinking. I’ll always remain hopeful,” he said.

The 50-year-old quit the game back in 1990 before donning the umpire’s uniform five years later. He has no regrets, though, for having bid farewell to the game at just 28 years of age.

“Honestly, I’ve no regrets. Life’s short and you should take whatever comes your way and be happy with it,” Viswanath believes.