With a goal to officiate 100 Tests and 200 ODIs before retirement, Rudi Koertzen made his international debut in 1992 and since then has gone on to become one of the game`s most respected officials.

Part of the first Elite Panel of umpires, Rudi is one of the few umpires who have managed to retain their place. He became the second umpire in history to officiate in over 150 ODIs, joining the now-retired David Shepherd in that very select club. Steve Bucknor joined the group after him. He is also known for his ‘slow death’ action that directs a batsman back to the pavilion.

A mysterious caller once approached him with a bribe offer before the India-West Indies Coca-Cola Cup final in Singapore in 1999. He was widely appreciated for his refusal to take bribe. He, however, earned notoriety for officiating in Hansie Cronje`s fixed Centurion Test against England in 2000.

His decisions against the Sri Lankans in the Second Test at Kandy in 2000-2001 were a serious blow to his credibility. Despite this, Rudi Koertzen has been able to earn the respect of cricketers from world over.