Cricket mourns as umpiring legend Dickie Bird dies aged 92

The cricket world is mourning the news that one of the most popular and famous figures in the sport, Harold “Dickie” Bird, has passed away in his home, aged 92.

Bird's carrer as an international umpire made him a household name as he was celebrated due to his integrity, unique style, and passion for the game.

A legacy forged from Yorkshire

Bird was born in 1933 in Barnsley and his life was inherently connected to the game of cricket. 

He started as a right-handed opening batter with his own home county, Yorkshire, and then transferred to Leicestershire. 

Although a knee injury cut short his playing career after 93 first-class matches, it paved the way for his true calling. 

In 1970, he got himself into umpiring and had a 28-year career which he emerged as the most renowned official in the game.

Unforgettable character on the world stage

Bird had refereed 66 Test matches and 69 One Day Internationals, a record at the time of his retirement. 

He presided over three finals of the World Cups at Lord’s. In addition to his professional responsibilities, he was cherished due to his warm, sometimes nervous nature, which has made him a favourite among players and spectators across generations and borders. 

He was presented with a guard of honour by the players of England and India on his last Test in 1996 marking a testament to the respect which he commanded around the world.

A lasting impact

Bird was appointed as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 1986 and Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2012 for his remarkable services to cricket. He was also appointed as the President of the Yorkshire County Cricket Club in 2014.

In a statement, the club representative said, “He will be truly missed by all at the club, having spent an incredible amount of time in support of everyone here, and will be remembered as one the greatest characters in Yorkshire's history.”