Further to widespread media comment subsequent to the Old Trafford Test Match, the ECB confirmed today its full support for Umpire David Shepherd. ECB Chief Executive Tim Lamb said:

"David Shepherd remains one of the finest Umpires both in domestic and international cricket and I have personally re-iterated to David both my and ECB's full support for him".

David Shepherd added:

"I accept the mistakes that I made on the final day of the Old Trafford Test. I have always endeavoured to perform to the best of my ability in each game that I officiate in. I have learned from the experiences from earlier this week, and I look forward to continuing my umpiring tomorrow".

© ECB