Erasmus to make debut

“Butterflies are good. I mean you should get them in your tummy otherwise what’s the point. Then I think there will be some problem. It is a big match for me and I am ready for it,” Erasmus said on Saturday.

The 45-year old South African’s big test will come when it’s time for him to make decisions against greats like Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. “Look you do have players like Sachin Tendulkar who is a legend and I do like watching Virender Sehwag bat as anything can happen. I also like watching Shane Warne closely but finally you have to be truthful to yourself and be focused on your job,” the genial, ever-smiling South African said.
Erasmus could not stop talking about the Aussie spin wizard. “Warne can be very intimidating at times, and he will keep you on your toes with constant appeals and questions. I had a taste of it during the Indian Premier League matches in South Africa.  A great bowler nevertheless,” he added.

Erasmus, who used to teach social sciences and Afrikaans to Grade 7 students in Cape Town, said coming to India was a totally different experience. He had officiated in Duleep Trophy matches last year and in the one-day series between India and Sri Lanka.

“Cricket and cricketers are huge in India. When I umpired in a recent game at Rajkot, two fans on the flight recognised that I was connected to cricket and in fact helped me find my way to the team hotel after we landed. So, I guess it helps to be recognised. We can’t expect it to happen in South Africa,” Erasmus said.

Detailing his most memorable moment on the field, Erasmus, who made his one-day debut in 2006, said, “Once while I was standing in a club game in South Africa, a spectator, the lone person in stands, shouted to Nanty Haywards ‘Hey Nanty hit the next ball for four I will give you 50 Rands.’ Nanty hit a four and shouted back ‘Where is my 50 Rands?’