Koertzen is by far one of the most experienced umpires in cricketing history
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have announced that they have hired current and former international umpires such as Mike Proctor, Russell Tiffin and ‘slow death’ Rudy Koertzen to officiate in the inaugural edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
“Apart from Aleem Dar and Asad Rauf [who are from Pakistan], three other esteemed international match officials have confirmed their participation,” the PCB said in a statement. “In addition, preparation is proceeding apace in all other aspects and the team is well on track with its plans for broadcasters and sponsorship.”
Despite not revealing any international players who have shown interest in the PSL, the PCB’s move to acquire such highly esteemed umpires is a high point for them in the past number of weeks, especially after the Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA) advised players not to travel to the war-torn country.
Pakistan last hosted an international series on home soil in March 2009, when the Sri Lankan national team were ambushed by armed militants, leaving eight locals dead and six players injured.
Since then, Pakistan have had to play all of their ‘home’ games in the United Arab Emirates or another neutral venue.
Proctor, who last officiated in 2008, visited Pakistan in June of that year before retiring to become South Africa’s convenor of selectors.
Proctor noted that he was excited at the prospect of visiting Pakistan once again and hopes to see international cricket return to the country soon.
“I am delighted to announce that I have agreed to be one of the Match Referees in the upcoming Pakistan Super League,” Procter was quoted as saying by PCB. “I was approached by the PSL management team and after due consideration, I am looking forward to being a part of this exciting event in Pakistan.
“It is unfortunate that Pakistan and its fans do not currently enjoy their beloved international cricket stars at home and this cannot remain so. I am willing to get involved, and to help change perceptions about cricket being played in Pakistan.”
Tiffin, who is from Zimbabwe, was a part of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) elite panel of umpires from 1995 and last officiated in Pakistan in 2003 when Bangladesh toured the country.
“I have been to Pakistan before on cricketing assignments and I am keen to take part in the PSL,” Tiffin said. “With the talent we know that exists in Pakistan, I am sure this competition will be quite a spectacle and I cannot wait to be a part of it.
“I know about the challenges that Pakistan cricket faces and I know from my own experiences at home how perceptions can cloud the realities. I am confident that the PCB can deliver a safe and secure event.”
South African-born Koertzen meanwhile has stood in a record 209 ODIs and 108 Tests before retiring in 2010.
Speaking about his decision to umpire in the PSL, Koertzen said: “We all know that Pakistan is going through a trying phase and we in the cricket family need to do what we can to help. It remains a very vibrant cricketing nation that always impresses us with its resilience. I have never had any problem umpiring in Pakistan, and I am actually looking forward to go over and catch up with old friends.”