STEVE BUCKNOR FACTFILE Tests: 99 First Test: WI v India at Kingston, 1988/89 Latest Test: SA v England at Centurion, 2004/05 Quotable quote: "It's not because my brain is working slowly."

Steve Bucknor says the second Test between India and Pakistan in Calcutta will be "just another match" despite it being the umpire's 100th in charge.

The West Indian, who will become the first official to reach the landmark, will stand alongside Darrell Hair in the match starting on Wednesday.

"The preparations will be the same," 58-year-old Bucknor said.

"Probably more because Eden Gardens, like most places in the subcontinent, is the toughest place for an umpire."

Bucknor made his debut in the fourth Test between West Indies and India in Kingston, Jamaica in April 1989.

He has also umpired in 131 one-dayers and four consecutive World Cups, taking charge of the final each time.

"I am just plain happy to have officiated at the highest level for 16 years," Bucknor said.

"There's no other feeling. If I am thankful to anybody, it's God alone."

Bucknor will become the first recipient of the ICC Golden Bails Award, part of the Umpire Recognition programme.

The programme also includes the Bronze Bails Award (for 100 one-day appearances) and Silver Bails Award (for 200 one-dayers).

Known as 'Slow Death' for his signature deliberation before making a decision, Bucknor's path to the top of his profession has not always been smooth.

He came under heavy fire for a rash of questionable verdicts in Australia in 2003, and claimed to receive death threats on the recent series between South Africa and England.

Bucknor said he had no problem with the introduction of technology in recent years, but stressed it should not be used to judge umpires too harshly.

"It is good to show different angles to viewers, but commentators should also emphasise that the umpire only had the benefit of one angle," he commented.

"We all make mistakes and I have too. I won't go into details, but I have twice apologised to the players who got affected.

"A human being is going to err."

Most Test matches as umpire: