Shepherd bows out of Test arena

Legendary English umpire David Shepherd last night called time on his Test career following Pakistan's win over the West Indies in Kingston.

During 20 years in the middle, Shepherd had officiated in an amazing 92 Tests, as well as taking charge of three successive World Cup finals in 1996, 1999 and 2003.

The 64-year-old from Devon, a useful middle-order batsman for Gloucestershire in his playing days, was affectionately applauded off the pitch by players on both sides.

"It's been a very long road but, basically, a very, very happy one," said an emotional Shepherd.

"I go back to dear old England and I've got five one-day internationals back there and then I've got the rest of the county season, and I'll be hanging up my coat in September."

Shepherd has always been famous for his superstitious aversion to the dreaded Nelson scoreline, shuffling his portly frame into a humorous dance when the scores are on 111.

However, that comical aside masks the total respect he commanded from players all around the world.

"That's something that all umpires must try and attain, it's very, very important to get the respect of the players," added Shepherd.

"But it's also very important, of course, for umpires to respect players - it's a mutual thing."