David Shepherd dies

David Shepherd, the former England umpire, has died after a long battle with cancer. He was 68. He officiated in 172 ODI's, including three consecutive World Cup finals, and 92 Tests between 1983 and 2005. He is one of the best professional that cricket has ever seen so far in its history. His good-humored approach to officiating and quirky superstitions - most notably his 'jig' when scores reached 111 or a multiple thereof - made him a favorite with players and spectators the world over.

Shepherd was appointed a first-class umpire in 1981, and made his international debut at the 1983 World Cup. His last Test match was between West Indies and Pakistan in Kingston in June 2005 - after which Brian Lara presented him with a bat.

ICC President David Morgan called him a true gentleman of the game, a match official of the very highest quality with an immense positive influence on the sport.

I am sure that his soul will not go out of cricketing world, even his body has left us.