Tributes continue to pour in for iconic elite panel umpire Rudi Koertzen, who passed away on August 9 in a car accident in Riversdale, South Africa. The South African officiated in 331 matches, the second highest by any umpire in international cricket, in a career spanning more than 20 years. He was appointed as a full-time ICC umpire in 1997 and was one of the first members of the Emirates Elite Panel of Umpires. Australian umpire Rod Tucker said Koertzen’s no-nonsense manner was something all players and colleagues respected. Rudi was an iconic elite panel umpire. He was such a strong figure on and off the field. His no-nonsense manner was enjoyed by the players and his colleagues.
My first Test on the field was with Rudi in New Zealand, and he helped make it an easier experience. In umpiring, we say that some colleagues make you feel safe. In other words, you are working as a team. Rudi made you feel safe as he had any issues under control,” said Tucker. Off the field, he was great fun and always up for a laugh and some fun. He was a great umpire and friend, and will be sorely missed by all of us. RIP Rudi,” he added. South African umpire Marais Erasmus said Koertzen was a well-respected person on and off the field. Rudi Koertzen was the epitome of strong. Well-respected by all and also loved by all. A no-nonsense guy that lived and umpired in the same way.
