Mark Benson calls an end to Test umpire career
Former Kent cricket captain Mark Benson has quit the
International Cricket Council's elite umpires' panel.
Benson, 51, has had health problems
in recent years, culminating in his withdrawal from the Second
Test between Australia and West Indies in December.
After an outstanding career for
Kent, Benson (pictured right) turned his attention to umpiring and
in 2006, his performances on the county circuit and in one-day
internationals earned him a call-up to the elite squad.
He has umpired in 27 Tests
and 72 one-day internationals and, in 2007, was chosen to
officiate in the final of the inaugural ICC World Twenty20
final.
Benson's health has deteriorated in
recent years and he has suffered from heart palpitations, high
blood pressure and stomach problems.
He has also voiced his discontent
with the new umpire review system.
Benson, who is married with two
sons, is to return to county cricket umpiring this season
and says he is looking forward to the start of the new campaign
with as much enthusiasm as when he was playing.
Friday, February 05 2010