Tributes have been paid to former worldwide cricket umpire Rudi Koertzen following his demise at 73.
Mr Koertzen died after he was concerned in a automotive crash in his native South Africa, in response to native media.
His umpire profession started there in 1981 after years spent taking part in cricket himself.
The much-loved official presided over greater than 100 Test matches between 1992 and 2010.
He was on the International Cricket Council’s elite panel of umpires for eight years and officiated in 331 matches, a report on the time of his retirement in 2010 that has since been surpassed by Pakistan’s Aleem Dar.
Mr Koertzen died whereas driving from Cape Town to Despatch in Eastern Cape, the place he lived together with his household, ESPNcricInfo mentioned.
South Africa wore black armbands on the opening day of their tour in opposition to England Lions in Canterbury on Tuesday as a mark of respect.
The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) led tributes to him on Twitter, saying: “MCC is deeply saddened to learn of the death of Honorary Life Member and former umpire, Rudi Koertzen. Our thoughts are with his friends and family.”
“It is a very big loss, foremost for his family and then for South Africa and cricket,” Mr Dar was quoted as saying by ESPNcricInfo.
“I stood in so many games with him. He was not only very good as an umpire but also an excellent colleague, always very cooperative on field and also always willing to help off the field.
“Because of the way in which he was, he was additionally well-respected by gamers.”
Former Indian batsman Virender Sehwag commented: “Whenever I used to play a rash shot he used to scold me saying ‘play smart, I wish to watch your batting’.
“A gentleman and a very wonderful person.”
‘One of the best umpires the sport has witnessed’
Fellow former India participant Yuvraj Singh additionally providing condolences on social media, writing: “Tragic news of the sudden passing away of Rudi Koertzen.
“He was a gifted particular person and one of many best umpires the sport has witnessed, identified for his sharp decision-making talents.”
Ex-Pakistan captain Wasim Akram also tweeted: “Saddened to know concerning the sudden demise of umpire Rudi Koertzen.
“He was forthright and knowledgeable umpire, shared some wonderful moments with him on and off the field. My deepest condolences to the family. RIP.”
Source: information.sky.com”