TMS verdict: Billy Bowden

Dilhara Fernando looks on as Billy Bowden makes a show of a signal

Billy Bowden. Clown or cavalier innovator of the umpiring world?

The New Zealander has split opinion in the world of cricket with his antics in the middle, a division that stretches to the Test Match Special commentary box.

For years umpires have generally worked to the mantra of being an almost invisible presence on the field, only breaking cover when called to make a decision.

But Bowden has turned that on its head and is more than happy to be seen carving previously sombre signals with gay abandon.

His antics have left some believing the best place for him is the back of a van with the other men who don white coats.

However, others take great pleasure in his unusual signalling and youthful vigour in the role.

Love him or loathe him, Bowden is here to stay.

He recently became the first New Zealander to be appointed to the elite list of umpires and is now standing in his first Test in England at Headingley.

Graeme Fowler and Neil Manthorp will be in the TMS box overlooking proceedings with vastly differing views on one of cricket's newest characters.

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Graeme Fowler

An umpire's job is to control the game, it's not a stepping stone to make himself famous

He's trying to create a little niche for himself, although if he wants to behave like that then that's up to him.

I don't mind him doing it and I don't object to it, but I don't find it funny.

It quite simply doesn't appeal to me but, if he wants to do it, good luck to him.

I haven't really seen enough to make a judgement on his umpiring but he seems to be all right from what I've seen so far.

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Neil Manthorp

It's human nature to concentrate on quirks or slightly quixotic things about somebody.

The only surprise is that in doing that and bringing attention on himself, Billy Bowden's umpiring has not been affected.

It's a bit like anyone drawing attention to themselves. James Anderson and that silly red streak springs to mind.

When I saw Anderson I thought 'don't do it, it'll backfire'. He's only 20 and has enough of a spotlight on himself. and sure enough it did backfire in the first two Tests.

With Bowden the slightly exotic has not detracted from his performance and that's the most important thing - the only criteria.

The showmanship is great and Bowden's a fantastic umpire.