Former umpire Des Raj dies

Des Raj, a former international umpire, has died following a cardiac arrest in Pune on Sunday.

Raj, 69, officiated as third umpire twice, including in the Titan Cup final between India and South Africa in 1996. His lone appearance as an on-field umpire in the men's game was in a match between Australia and Zimbabwe in 1998. Raj was a part of the panel of umpires in the Women's World Cup in India in 1997, officiating in two matches, including the first semi-final between India and Australia. He also stood in a Test between India Women and England Women in 2005.

Raj was active in the Ranji Trophy for 15 years, since making his debut in 1986. After retiring in 2001, he took on the role of BCCI match referee till the end of 2006-07 domestic season.