Follow Us
The man with the famous naughty chuckle and three times ICC umpire of the year, Marais Erasmus announces his departure from International cricket. The first test between the Kiwis and Australia at Wellington will mark the end of his distinguished career.
The 60-year-old South African reached multiple milestones and collected accolades throughout his career. He umpired 124 ODIs, 80 Tests, and 43 T20Is played by men, in 18 women’s T20Is, and as the television official in 131 men’s internationals across all formats. Marais became part of the elite ICC panel in 2010 and has gone on to officiate in numerous high-profile cricket matches, including all eight T20I World Cup, four ODI World Cups, and 14 Ashes Tests.
Considered one of the best in business, Marais had been part of International cricket for 18 years. Starting his career in a T20I between South Africa and Australia in 2006.
The decision to quit international cricket was taken by him in October and conclude his contract with ICC in April. It was a decision taken by him to lead a quieter life away from the rigorous needs of international cricket. He also highlighted the time spent away from playing a crucial factor in making this decision. However, he assured me that it was not his end in the cricketing fraternity as he would from now on contribute as a mentor and work as an umpire in the domestic circuit for Cricket South Africa(CSA).
“I’ll miss the privileges and the travelling. But I’ve had enough of being away and living outside of my comfort zone. I think having a more boring life is what I’m looking for.” said, Marais when asked about his retirement in an interview with Cricbuzz.
When Sri Lanka faced Bangladesh in 2023 World cup, one of the decision made my Marais created such controversy. When he withheld the decision of sending Angelo Matthews back to the pavilion for being “timed out”. This was the first time ever a batsman was given out in international cricket for being timed out. The whole situation stirred up controversy in the cricketing world, but Marais stood his ground and abided by the cricketing laws.
From a first-class cricketer in domestic cricket to officiating at iconic venues around the globe, Marais’ career is the epitome of what passion and commitment towards this sport brings to you.
