Mark Benson began his cricket stint as a first-class player for Kent. His long playing career spanned from 1980 to 1997. He, however, featured only in one Test and one ODI for his country. After retirement, he switched over to umpiring. Since then, he has had a largely successful career free from any controversy as an umpire. Benson was rewarded for his efforts when in April 2006 he was promoted to the ICC Elite panel.