DUBAI, United Arab Emirates,  CMC – Umpire Mark Benson, who was forced to quit the second Test between Australia and West Indies in Adelaide last December, has walked away from international cricket.

The 51-year-old Englishman, who has stood in 27 Tests and 72 One-Day Internationals, cited the excessive travel, his family commitments and worries over his health as the reasons behind his decision to retire.

Benson withdrew from the Adelaide Test after the first day through illness though media reports had speculated he was upset after some of his decisions had been challenged under the umpire review system.

“I have enjoyed my time on the elite panel immensely,” said Benson.

“The opportunity to be part of the global game has given me memories that I will always treasure. But travel and being away from home takes its toll on the family and some warning bells have started to ring regarding my health.
“So, having thought about it carefully, I feel now is the right time for me to step down and move to a more settled and familiar environment in England.”

Benson will now take up a job with the England and Wales Cricket Board, after asking the ICC to be released three months early from his umpiring contract.