2022/08/Rudi.jpg

The cricketing fraternity was taken aback on Tuesday morning by the news of Rudi Koertzen’s death coming all the way from South Africa. The former South African umpire passed away in a car accident at the age of 73. Famously labelled as the 'slow finger of death' by the media, Koertzen created an impact with his unique style of umpiring.

Fans loved Koertzen for the way he made everyone wait before revealing his decision. However, with the South African retiring in 2010 after a Test between Australia and Pakistan in Leeds, England, the unique style also retired. Now, as Koertzen has said his last goodbye, the cricketing fraternity paid tribute to the legendary umpire.

Cricketers from across the globe mourned the demise of Rudi Koertzen and expressed their deepest condolences. A few also shared anecdotes involving the former South African. Vale Rudi Koertzen ! Om Shanti. Condolences to his family.

“Had a great relation with him. Whenever I used to play a rash shot, he used to scold me saying, “Play sensibly, I want to watch your batting”. Once he wanted to buy a particular brand of cricket pads for his son and enquired about it from me. I gifted him and he was so grateful. A gentleman and a very wonderful person. Will miss you Rudi. Om Shanti,” wrote Sehwag on Twitter.

Other cricketers also paid tribute to the legendary umpire.

Check out tweets here: