David Shepherd, 68, succumbs to cancer

Former umpire David Shepherd passed away on Wednesday after a long battle with cancer, at the age of 68.

The former Gloucestershire batsman and England [ Images ] umpire officiated in 92 Tests and 172 one-day internationals, including three World Cup finals.
A statement on Gloucestershire's website said: "David brought to all aspects of cricket a cheerful westcountry approach.

"He was respected by all with whom he came in contact, especially the international players with whom he encountered in so many Test matches.

"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.

"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 - at which he hopped on one leg at the crease between deliveries.

It was fitting that his retirement came 200 years after the Battle of Trafalgar; Lord Admiral Nelson's most famous, and final, military campaign.

He played county cricket for Gloucestershire, from 1965-79, hitting 10,672 runs.

He was appointed a first-class umpire in 1981 and swiftly went up the ranks, making his Test debut in an Ashes Test four years later.

His final international match was the One-Day International between England and Australia [ Images ] at the Brit Oval on July 12, 2005.

As well as a reputation for fairness and impartiality, Shepherd's pragmatic approach and warm personality for over two decades earned him respect from top international players and popularity with cricket fans around the world.

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