Marais Erasmus to Retire from International Umpiring After Christchurch Test

South African umpire Marais Erasmus, a highly respected figure in the cricketing world, is set to retire from international umpiring after the second and final Test between New Zealand and Australia in Christchurch, starting on March 8.

Erasmus, 60, has had a remarkable career spanning over two decades. He began umpiring in 2006 and was appointed to the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Umpires in 2010. He is the joint-longest serving current umpire on the list, alongside Rod Tucker.

Throughout his illustrious career, Erasmus has officiated in 380 matches, including 131 as a TV umpire. He has stood in 82 men's Test matches, placing him 10th on the list of umpires with the most Test appearances.

Erasmus has also officiated in four World Cups (2011, 2015, 2019, 2023), seven T20 World Cups (2009, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2021, 2022), and two Champions Trophy tournaments (2013, 2017). He has also officiated in three Women's T20 World Cups (2010, 2012, 2014).

Notably, Erasmus was one of the two on-field umpires for the dramatic final of the 2019 ODI World Cup between England and New Zealand. He also stood as the umpire in the last two T20 World Cup finals in 2021 and 2022.

Erasmus has been recognized for his exceptional skills and professionalism, winning the David Shepherd Trophy for the ICC Umpire of the Year in 2016, 2017, and 2021.

ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice praised Erasmus's outstanding career, saying, "Marais has had an outstanding career as an international umpire. He has officiated in many global ICC tournaments, including World Cup finals, as well as high-profile series all over the world, at all times displaying his skill, calmness, and composure, even in the most challenging of situations."

Erasmus's retirement marks the end of an era in international umpiring. His contributions to the game have been immense, and he will be remembered as one of the most respected and accomplished umpires in cricket history.

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