Top 10: Best Cricket Umpires In History

Cricket umpiring has been a hot topic, especially during the  IPL  2024 season, where inconsistent decisions drew widespread criticism. Virat Kohli’s controversial dismissal against the Kolkata Knight Riders added to the debate about the credibility of the DRS and umpire judgment. 

However, cricket has seen umpires who excel in their decision-making, demonstrating skill and patience in crucial game moments.

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Here are the top 10 best umpires in cricket history, who have consistently made the right calls.

10. Richard Kettleborough

Richard Kettleborough, a former Yorkshire cricketer, transitioned to umpiring after a brief playing career. Despite initial criticism, he improved and became a regular in high-profile matches.

Joining the ICC elite panel in 2011, Kettleborough is known for his precision. In addition to officiating the 2015 World Cup semifinal and final, he earned three straight David Shepherd Trophies from 2013 to 2015. At 46, he has many years ahead in umpiring.

9. Srinivas Venkatraghavan

One of India’s top cricket umpires is Srinivas Venkatraghavan, also referred to as Venkat. After captaining India in the first two World Cups, he retired as a player in 1993 and started his umpiring career.

Similar to his off-spin bowling style, Venkat was renowned for his rapid decision-making. His umpiring career spanned from 1993 to 2004, during which he officiated numerous matches in both ODIs and Tests.

8. Ian Gould

Ian Gould, a former England wicket-keeper, transitioned to umpiring in 2006. Known for his keen eye and humorous approach, Gould officiated in 251 international matches, including 140 ODIs, over 13 years.

He retired after the 2019 ICC World Cup match between India and Sri Lanka, leaving a mark with his unique style and sharp decisions.

7. Aleem Dar

Aleem Dar, a Pakistani umpire, holds the record for the most international cricket matches officiated. He became the first umpire to officiate more than 350 matches in less than 20 years, and he is almost at 400 now.

From 2009 to 2011, Dar was the winner of the David Shepherd Trophy for Best Cricket Umpire three times in a row. Throughout the 2011 World Cup, he had an impeccable record; every DRS review that disagreed with his decisions was reversed.

6. Rudi Koertzen

Rudi Koertzen, the South African umpire, is known for his dramatic slow-raising index finger. Starting in 1981, Koertzen joined the international scene in 1992 and became part of the ICC Elite Panel in 2002.

More than 200 ODIs and more than 100 Test matches were overseen by him. Players and fans alike recognized and revered Koertzen for turning down offers to rig games. He retired after a 2010 Test match between Australia and Pakistan.

5. Billy Bowden

Billy Bowden added entertainment value to umpiring with his trademark crooked finger gesture. He began working as an international umpire in 2000 and became a member of the ICC Elite Panel in 2003.

For big games like the World Cup knockouts and the Ashes, Bowden was a favorite. He officiated 84 Tests, 200 ODIs, and 24 T20Is. With his final ODI appearance in 2016, Bowden’s incredible career came to a close.

4. Steve Bucknor

Steve Bucknor, known as “Slow Death” for his slow decision-making, is one of cricket’s best umpires. From 1992 to 2007, he stood in five ICC Cricket World Cup finals, setting a record.

Despite controversies towards the end of his career, Bucknor remains highly respected. He officiated in more than 300 games, making him the third most-capped umpire in international history.

3. Simon Taufel

Renowned cricket umpire Simon Taufel earned the David Shepherd Award five times between 2004 and 2008, cementing his status as one of the game’s top umpires.

Among the high-profile matches he oversaw were the World T20 final in 2012 and the World Cup final in 2011.  Taufel amassed 74 Tests, 174 ODIs, and 34 T20Is before retiring in 2012.

2. David Shepherd

David Shepherd, a legendary umpire, is often called the best in cricket history. Known for his skills and popularity, Shepherd umpired in three World Cup finals.

With 92 Tests and 172 ODIs, he holds the record for the most-capped international umpire from England. Shepherd was admired for his professionalism and humorous on-field gestures. 2008 saw his passing from lung cancer.

1. Marais Erasmus

Marais Erasmus, known for his expertise and professionalism, is regarded as one of the best cricket umpires. He has officiated many international games in many competition formats, including prestigious tournaments like the Cricket World Cup.

Erasmus deserves praise for his unbiased and reliable decisions. His umpiring record includes 119 Tests, 174 ODIs, and 61 T20Is, showcasing his extensive experience and contribution to the sport.

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