Iconic cricket umpire Dickie Bird has died at the age of 92, Yorkshire Country Cricket Club has confirmed.
Harold Bird, known as Dickie, became arguably the most famous umpire in the world during his time officiating international fixtures from 1973-1996.
In a statement on social media, YCCC wrote: ‘It is with profound sadness that The Yorkshire County Cricket Club announces the passing of Harold Dennis “Dickie” Bird MBE OBE, one of cricket’s most beloved figures, who died peacefully at home at the age of 92.’
The club added: ‘Dickie Bird became a national treasure, known not only for his umpiring excellence but also for his eccentricities and warmth.
‘He leaves behind a legacy of sportsmanship, humility, and joy — and a legion of admirers across generations.
‘The thoughts of everyone at the Yorkshire County Cricket Club are with Dickie’s family and friends during this time.
‘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.’
Born in Barnsley in April 1933, Bird played club cricket with TV icon Michael Parkinson and future England star Geoffrey Boycott.
He went on to play First Class cricket for Yorkshire and Leicestershire, but it is for his career as an umpire that he is best known for.
He began umpiring at county level in 1970 and made the step up to his first Test match in 1973, officiating England vs New Zealand at Headingley.
Bird would umpire a total of 66 Tests from 1973-96 and 69 One Day Internationals from 73-95.
He stood as umpire in the first ever World Cup final in 1975, won by West Indies against Australia at Lord’s, going on to umpire two more World Cup finals.
Bird’s final Test match was between England and India at Lord’s in 1996, quoted as saying as he left the field: ‘Well, that’s it, Dickie lad. Finished. Over and out.’
In 1986 Bird was given the MBE and in 2012 the OBE, for services to cricket and charity.
A statue of Bird was erected in his hometown of Barnsley in 2009. He became president of Yorkshire CCC in 2014.
More to follow…
