Former international umpire Marais Erasmus recently revealed a funny incident in which he almost got arrested at Dubai International Airport during a routine baggage screening.
Marais had joined ABC Sport’s commentary team for the South Africa vs Australia 3rd Test at Newlands. During the discussion, he was asked whether he had ever faced any issues at airport security, given that umpires travel frequently around the world.
With a laugh, Marais Erasmus recalled a hilarious incident at Dubai Airport, saying, “I nearly spent a night in Dubai prison because the lady thought I had a s.. tool with me, but it was just my ball gauge that we used to check if the ball is still round. But she thought it was handcuffs. I was nearly in trouble there, you know. That would never happen in India.”
Indian Baggage Handler Rescued Marais Erasmus From Going to Jail
Erasmus further explained how he managed to get out of the situation, crediting an Indian baggage handler for coming to his rescue.
He recalled, “My saviour was there was a baggage handler who came from India, and he could speak a bit of Arabic, but he explained to her that, no no no cricket cricket.”
What Is a Cricket Ball Gauge?
A cricket ball gauge is a tool used by umpires to check whether a cricket ball meets the required size and circumference specifications. It somewhat resembles a pair of handcuffs, which explains why the airport security officer may have mistaken it for something else.
The gauge has two types of rings: the Go Ring and the No-Go Ring.
The Go Ring is the larger ring, through which the ball should easily pass, while the No-Go Ring is smaller, and the ball should not pass through it.
Marais Erasmus’ Umpiring Records
Marais Erasmus retired from international umpiring in 2024, bringing the curtain down on an illustrious 18-year career during which he officiated in 380 matches across formats, including as a TV umpire.
He officiated in four ICC Men’s Cricket World Cups (2011, 2015, 2019 and 2023), seven ICC Men’s T20 World Cups (2009, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2021 and 2022), and three ICC Women’s T20 World Cups (2010, 2012 and 2014).
He was also one of the two on-field umpires for the high-profile final of the 2019 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup between England and New Zealand.
