Former Judge David Shepherd released Wednesday after a long battle with cancer at the age of the 68th The former Gloucestershire and England batsman umpire judged in 92 Tests and 172 one-day internationals, including three World Cup finals. A statement on the Gloucestershire website said: “David brought to all aspects of cricket a cheerful West Country approach. He was respected by everyone he came in contact, especially international players, who he has met so many Test matches.
He always had a smile on all our faces. For him cricket was a nice game, simple game and a game that can be enjoyed. He has brought so much joy to so many of us. Our sympathies are with his wife and family. A right-handed batsman from Devon, Shepherd played 282 first class matches and scored 12 centuries. He was famous for his aversion to the ‘Nelson’ – scores with a multiple of 111 – where he hopped on one leg on the pressure on supplies.
It was fitting that his departure came 200 years after the Battle of Trafalgar, Admiral Lord Nelson’s most famous, and eventually the military campaign. He played county cricket for Gloucestershire, 1965-79, frames 10672 yesterday. He was promoted to first class umpire in 1981 and rose quickly through the ranks, making his Test debut in an Ashes Test four years later. His last international match was One-Day International between England and Australia at the Brit Oval 12 July 2005.
And a reputation for fairness and impartiality, giving Shepherd’s pragmatic approach and warm personality in more than two decades him the respect of major international players and popularity with cricket fans around the world.
Source: Rediff.com
