Cricket's Most Famous Umpires in History

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Cricket matches require umpires to make important decisions. Umpires judge batters out or not out. They also call no balls, wides and other breaches of the rules. Good umpiring is essential for fair cricket.

Over the years, some umpires have become legends. Their skills and character made them hugely respected.

However, there are some surprising findings. Last year, the playinexch website online conducted a survey among its users. It turned out that only 7% of the exchange portal's customers believe that umpires can significantly influence the outcome of a match. Additionally, 64% admitted that they are not concerned about the umpire's name before placing a bet.

Let's look at some of cricket's most famous umpires through history.

Dickie Bird

Dickie Bird (England) is one of cricket's most beloved umpires. He umpired international matches from 1973 to 1996. Dickie was admired for:

• His accurate decision making. His eyesight was superb
• His rapport with players. He chatted with them and reduced tensions
• His funny sayings and stories. He made cricket entertaining

Dickie officiated in 66 Test matches and 69 ODIs. He is fondly remembered by cricketers and fans worldwide.

David Shepherd

David Shepherd (England) umpired from 1979 to 2005. He is remembered for:

• Top level umpiring skills. Players respected his fairness and consistency
• A superstition about Nelson (111 runs). When it came up, he hopped on one leg
• Big appealing reactions. His unique wide-arm appeals thrilled crowds

Shepherd stood in 92 Tests and 172 ODIs. He was regarded as one of the game's finest umpires.

Steve Bucknor

Steve Bucknor (West Indies) was a top umpire from 1989 to 2009. His hallmarks were:

• Extremely calm demeanor. He never got stressed or angry on the field
• Making many historic decisions. Like Brian Lara's world record 400 score
• An excellent knowledge of cricket laws and procedures

Bucknor umpired 128 Test matches, by far the most ever. He set high standards for future umpires with his presence and expertise.

Simon Taufel

Simon Taufel (Australia) umpired between 1999 to 2012. Known for:

• Accuracy in decision making using his excellent reading of deliveries
• Winning five consecutive 'Umpire of the Year' awards from 2004 to 2008
• Preparing meticulously and studying players. He used homework to improve

Taufel officiated in 74 Tests and 174 ODIs. His dedication made him one of cricket's top modern umpires.

Aleem Dar

Aleem Dar (Pakistan) debuted as an umpire in 2000. He is respected for:

• The most international matches umpired - over 390 Tests and ODIs
• A soft-spoken and polite manner when making decisions
• His integrity and principles. He has won numerous fair play awards

Aleem Dar continues to be a leading umpire today. He has set records for most caps and won universal respect in a long career.

Honorable Mentions

Other iconic umpires include:

• Rudi Koertzen (South Africa) - Stood in 108 Tests, 200 ODIs from 1992-2010
• Billy Bowden (New Zealand) - Quirky signals. Officiated in 84 Tests, 200 ODIs
• Daryl Harper (Australia) - Accurate decisions. Umpired 95 Tests, 174 ODIs

These officials all helped uphold standards of professionalism for umpires. They ensured matches were officiated fairly using sound judgment and application of cricket laws.

Cricket has been blessed with many competent and colorful umpiring characters.

Their integrity and individual flair added to the game's traditions. Umpires continue to play a vital role adjudicating the fine margins between victory and defeat as fans watch intently and engage in online cricket betting.