Steve Bucknor is on the verge of becoming the most experienced umpire in Test history. When he officiates in Lahore in next month's first Test between Pakistan and New Zealand, Bucknor will equal Dickie Bird's current record of 66 Tests as an umpire.

He should then move past Bird's mark when he stands in the second Test of the series at Karachi.

"Steve is an outstanding umpire who has the respect of international cricketers throughout the world," said Dave Richardson, the International Cricket Council's (ICC) general manager.

Richardson, the former South African wicketkeeper added: "He is an excellent decision-maker who controls a match with an authority that allows him to work well with players.

"Off the field, his disciplined lifestyle and commitment to personal fitness have been important in enabling him to reach this milestone. They are also characteristics that set an example for other aspiring umpires to follow."

Bucknor, 55, made his Test-match debut during India's tour of the Caribbean in 1988-89. He has also umpired in 84 one-day internationals.

In addition, Bucknor is the only official to have taken part in both cricket and football World Cups, having refereed a World Cup football international between El Salvador and the Netherlands.

The first Test between Pakistan and New Zealand starts on May 1 with the second and final Test on May 8.

© Wisden CricInfo Ltd