29th October 2009, ENGLAND.

David Shepherd, the ex- England umpire, has passed away in cancer. He was 68.

Shepherd was a well-known international umpire and he was in charge in 172 ODI’s, including 3 successive World Cup finals, and also 92 Tests from 1983 – 2005. His amazing approach managing and idiosyncratic superstitions – especially his ‘jig’ when any score reaches 111 or a multiple of it has made him the most favorites amongst others. He was selected as a first-class umpire during 1981, and he made his first appearance at the 1983 cricket World Cup. His very last Test match was actually between West Indies & team Pakistan held in Kingston ground in June 2005. After which Brian Lara gifted him a bat decorated with a message showing appreciations him for “the service, the professionalism, and the memories”. His final county emergence came actually at his earlier domicile ground of Bristol. Shepherd had also represented Gloucestershire team as a batsman over 14 years, including 282 first-class matches having 12 centuries.

After the retirement from umpiring, he came back to Devon and stayed involved with his home club. He actually married Jenny, his very long-time partner, in 2008.”He always brought a smile to all our faces. For him, cricket was a lovely game, a simple game and a game to be enjoyed. He himself brought so much enjoyment to so many of us.” a spokesperson said. Dickie Bird his long time associate said “I fell into tears when I heard about the matter,” “He was an amazing personality; we’ve spent many joyful hours together”, he added.

ICC president David Morgan said. “He was a charming personality which intended players and other umpires to be pleased around him.”