Mumbai: Marais Erasmus is one of the best umpires in the world, widely respected by cricketers of all nations.
But even the best can have a forgettable moment.
On January 27, Erasmus was caught napping during the first ODI between England and South Africa at Bloemfontein.
The 58-year-old looked at a different direction, seemingly pre-occupied with something, as he missed watching a delivery while standing at square leg.
The incident took place in the 24th over of England’s innings. After opener Jason Roy played a backfoot drive off Anrich Nortje, cameras spotted Erasmus turning around to realise that he had missed the delivery.
Roy, who was on 97, scored a brilliant 113. But that wasn’t enough as South Africa won by 27 runs.
Watch the video clip which has gone viral on Twitter:
— Out Of Context Cricket (@GemsOfCricket) January 28, 2023
The experienced Erasmus, who has stood in 75 Tests, 109 ODIs and 43 T20Is, was lucky not to be called into action for incidents like a wide ball due to height or a stumping/run out etc.
Twitteratti had a good laugh at Erasmus’ expense.
One sentiment which stood out from among the comments was: “Marais Erasmus has no interest in ODI cricket at all.”
