David Shepherd: The Man and His Paintings

by David Shepherd

Book by Shepherd, David

176 pages, Hardcover

Published January 1, 1987

About the author

David Shepherd was a respected English cricketer and one of the most beloved and recognizable umpires in international cricket. After playing for Gloucestershire from 1965 to 1979 as a dependable middle-order batsman, Shepherd transitioned into umpiring, where he left a much greater legacy. Appointed a first-class umpire in 1981, he went on to stand in 92 Test matches—more than any other English umpire—and 172 One Day Internationals, including three consecutive World Cup finals in 1996, 1999, and 2003.
Famed for his affable personality, fairness, and eccentric superstitions—such as hopping on one leg when the score reached 111 (known as a "Nelson")—Shepherd was adored by fans and respected by players worldwide. His trademark hand-shaking signal for a boundary remains an iconic image in the sport. He was also the first umpire to officiate a Test match in every then-Test-playing nation, and one of the inaugural members of the ICC Elite Panel of umpires.
Shepherd was known for his excellent man-management and his ability to create a calm and respectful environment on the field. His handling of serious moments, like removing Pakistan's Waqar Younis from the attack for dangerous bowling during the 2003 World Cup, demonstrated both courage and authority.
In recognition of his service to cricket, he was appointed MBE in 1997. Following retirement in 2005, he returned to his native Devon, where he remained active in the cricket community until his passing from lung cancer in 2009. David Shepherd is remembered not only for his achievements but as a true embodiment of the spirit of cricket.