Simon Taufel: No1 umpire in world cricket

Umpiring India-Pakistan World Cup semi was my most exciting moment: Simon Taufel

Australian umpire Simon Taufel, who is set to stand in his final international game during tomorrow's ICC World T20 final, termed the 2011 World Cup semi-final between India versus Pakistan as the "most exciting match" of his career.

"When I look back, there are many memorable moments but I can instantly remember the India versus Pakistan game at Mohali during the 2011 World Cup semi-final as the most exciting one," Taufel said during his interaction with media at the Premadasa Stadium today.

"The Prime Ministers of the two countries were present and it was more than just a game of cricket. I believe there were two finals in 2011 World Cup. The semi-final and the final," he added.

The 41-year-old Australian said that the "toughest match" of his career was a Test match between India and England in Mumbai which were the "longest five days as I was not well. I was bitten by the stomach bug in Mohali. It was a physical as well as mental Test."

Asked about what it takes to make a good umpire, Taufel replied, "It requires all kinds of personal skills, man management, technique. It really is a different challenge. There is a responsibility towards broadcasters, to the people who watch it on TV."

Taufel didn't want to answer a question on the uniform implementation of DRS.

"I don't wish to comment. It is a matter that Dave (Richardson) is taking up with the various cricket committees. My job is to see how technology has a role in the game and also develop and educate future match officials.