5 most experienced Test umpires

South Africa v England - 1st Test Day Three

Whilst they don't make the headlines, the umpires play an important role in the sport of cricket. The protectors of integrity, the men in white coats can decide the fate of a match.

It was not until 1992 that the concept of neutral umpires was formally trialled in international cricket. One neutral was appointed per Test on an experimental basis, and the system was fully implemented two years later.

The natural progression to two neutrals was made in 2002, starting with India's tour of the West Indies. The move was made in order to dispel the age-old accusation that home umpires were biased.

Here are the five most experienced Test umpires, in terms of Tests, stood in.

#5 David Shepherd

David Shepherd was a first-class cricketer before his umpiring career began and represented Gloucestershire. After his appointment as a first-class umpire in 1981, within two years he was umpiring at the World Cup.

He stood in 92 Test matches, between August 1985 and June 2005, the most of any English umpire. Shepherd was known for his jolly character and was universally liked by players and spectators alike. He passed away on 27 October 2009.