Umpire Bruce Oxenford officiates in 50th Test

International Cricket Council (ICC) umpire Bruce Oxenford is officiating in his 50th Test during the fourth Test between India and England at Southampton.

The 58-year-old, who played eight first-class matches before embarking on his career as a match official, is the 18th umpire to reach the half-century mark in Tests and the sixth from Australia to do so.

Reflecting on the same, Bruce said that it is hard to believe that he has reached the 50 mark in Test matches. He further hoped to continue serving "the greatest game in the world".

"I've had a wonderful time officiating in international cricket and hope to continue in the same way in years to come. I am still pinching myself. It is hard to believe a plodding Gold Coast cricketer could become a Test Umpire, let alone get to stand in 50 Tests," ICC official website quoted Oxenford, as saying.

"I've had a wonderful time officiating in international cricket and hope to continue in the same way in the years to come. It's still such an honour to contribute to the greatest game in the world and I feel a real rush every time I step out into the middle. All the great people that I have met and interacted with along the way are what has made the journey so special. It's easily the best job I've ever had!" he added.

ICC's senior manager Adrian Griffith congratulated the umpire on the occasion and wished him all the success for the coming year.

"Bruce is a very good umpire who is respected by players and officials alike and deserves all the accolades he will receive," Griffith said.

"I congratulate Bruce on behalf of everyone at the ICC for reaching the 50-Test mark, which is a reflection of his hard work and dedication. We wish him all the success in the years to come and hope he has a long and fruitful career," he added.

Oxenford, who became a first-class umpire in 2001, appeared in his first international match during a T20 international between Australia and South Africa in 2006.