Rudy Kurtzen, one of world cricket’s most influential and prominent match officials. Passed away on Tuesday (9 August) in a car accident. The South African, who has had a successful career spanning over 18 years, was 73 years old at the time of his death.

Kurtzen unfortunately got into a head-on collision while returning home from a golf weekend in Riverdale, South Africa. Besides him, three other people lost their lives in the accident while making his way to the dispatch in Nelson Mandela Bay.

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According to Kurtzen Jr., the 73-year-old lost his life under the influence

“He went to a golf tournament with some of his friend. And they were expected to be back on Monday, but it looks like he decided to play another round of golf.”

And he is famous for the slow movement of his index finger while dismissing a batsman. Apart from the infamous gesture. His impeccable decisions set him apart from the rest and became widely regarded as a professional in the field of cricket.

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Rudy Kurtzen has officiated in 108 Tests and 209 ODIs since 1992

Rudy Kurtzen started her career in December 1992 when India toured the Rainbow Nation. He always had a soft spot for cricket and played league cricket while serving in the South African Railways.

The South African was promoted to a full-time International Cricket Council (ICC) umpire in 1997. And inducted into the elite panel of umpires in 2002. He became the second umpire after David Shepherd to officiate in 150 ODIs and ended his career. 209 ODIs, which still stands as a record.

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Became the second umpire after Steve Bucknor to officiate in 100 Test matches

During the second Ashes Test in 2009. He became the second umpire after fellow colleague Steve Bucknor to officiate in 100 Test matches. And officiated in eight more Tests before retiring in 2010, with his last match between Australia and Pakistan in Leeds.

He is the only umpire to have received the ICC Bronze Bell Award and the ICC Silver Bells Award. As well as the ICC Golden Bells Award, which are given for officiating in 100 ODIs. 200 ODIs and 100 Tests respectively. Kurtzen was also responsible for umpiring in several high-profile matches, including the prestigious 2005 Ashes series.

Kurtzen was also the third umpire during the finals of the 2003 and 2007 editions of the ODI World Cup.