After a career playing for Hampshire, cut short by injury, John Holder, an immigrant from Barbados, turned his hand to umpiring. In 27 years, he officiated in 11 Tests and 23 one-day internationals. A Test of Character throws an interesting light on the job of an international umpire, with all its pressures, controversies and prejudices.

A compelling story of cricket, umpiring, and overcoming adversity. This is the biography of John Holder, a Barbados-born cricketer who became a Test match umpire. Arriving in England as part of the Windrush generation, Holder navigated the challenges of a new country while pursuing his passion for cricket. Discover his journey from playing on the London Underground team to umpiring international matches.

Test of Character offers a unique perspective on the sport, exploring the pressures, controversies, and prejudices faced by a black umpire in a predominantly white setting. Through anecdotes and insights, Andrew Murtagh paints a vivid picture of Holder's life, highlighting his resilience, humor, and unwavering commitment to fairness. This is a must-read for cricket enthusiasts and anyone interested in stories of perseverance and breaking barriers.