After an 18-year international career, South African umpire Marais Erasmus has announced his retirement. The first Test between New Zealand and Australia in Wellington will be the 60-year-old’s final game.
Erasmus, largely regarded as one of the game’s top umpires, made his international debut in a 2006 T20I against South Africa and Australia. Since then, he has umpired 80 Tests, 124 ODIs, and 43 T20Is for men, as well as 18 T20Is for women. He also worked as a TV umpire in 131 international matches of various formats.
Erasmus cited the time spent away from home as a major factor in his decision. He made the call in October, informing the ICC that he planned to finish his contract in April.
The 60-year-old has received numerous awards, including the prestigious ICC Umpire of the Year title three times (2016, 2017, and 2021). This accomplishment puts him second only to the famous Simon Taufel, who has five such trophies to his credit.
Prior to his umpiring career, Erasmus was a successful cricket player. He featured for Boland in 53 first-class and 54 List-A matches, hitting over 2,000 runs and taking 179 wickets as an all-rounder.
While Erasmus has stepped away from international cricket, his love for the game remains strong. He intends to spend the first few winter months relaxing and travelling locally before returning to officiate in South African domestic cricket in September. In addition, he plans to mentor young umpires by sharing his considerable knowledge.
