Leeds, Jul 7 (IANS): Umpire Ian Gould, who officiated in his final ODI at Headingley during the World Cup encounter between India and Sri Lanka, admitted he could not have wished for a better way to bow out of the game.

On Saturday, the experienced English umpire came back from the middle for the final time during India's win over Sri Lanka, bringing down the curtain on a 13-year international career as an umpire.

His family were on hand as Gould was honoured in a presentation with India great Sanjay Manjrekar.

"It's been an amazing experience. There are a lot of people I'd like to thank. The ECB for setting me on this road and the ICC finishing it for me. It's been great fun and a great experience.

"The time was right (to stop). I've had a great year and I've enjoyed it. I thought the time now is to move on and let someone else come through.

"There are some very exciting umpires coming through as well with the 12 who are here. It's a very strong group now."

Known for his rapport with the players and genial nature, Gould, known as Gunner because of the time he spent in the Arsenal youth set-up, had a few words of advice for those who will follow in his footsteps.

He added: "You've got to understand people, you've got to meet people, talk to people, you have to practise with people.

They get to understand you and you understand them. It makes it a lot easier if you do it that way.

"All I can ever say to anyone, and the other umpires have heard this a million times: 'Keep smiling and enjoy it.'"