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One of cricket’s most renowned and charismatic umpires, Harold “Dickie” Bird, has died at the age of 92, Yorkshire County Cricket Club announced on Tuesday.
Bird officiated in 66 Test matches between 1973 and 1996, as well as 69 men’s one-day internationals, including three World Cup finals.
Yorkshire described him as “one of cricket’s most beloved figures”, confirming he had died peacefully at home.
“Dickie Bird enjoyed an illustrious career as an international umpire, writing his name into history as the most famous and popular official in the game’s history,” the club said. They hailed him as a “national treasure” admired for his umpiring excellence, eccentricities, and warmth.
Bird began as a batsman for Yorkshire and Leicestershire but earned global fame as an umpire, recognised by his trademark white cap. He received a guard of honour at Lord’s during his final Test between England and India.
Beyond the field, his autobiography sold more than a million copies, and he later became Yorkshire’s president in 2014.
Tributes poured in following news of his death. Geoffrey Boycott, a lifelong friend since their Barnsley days, remembered his humour: “He used to call me Gerald, no matter how often I corrected him. Dickie was a character, always fun, respected, admired, and loved.”
Barnsley Football Club, Bird’s hometown side, announced they would hold a minute’s applause before their League Cup match against Brighton.
Former England captain David Gower praised him as “one of the best umpires ever to take the field”, noting his high standards and good humour.
Graham Gooch recalled Bird’s knack for unusual incidents, including standing beside a leaking pipe at Headingley: “It could only happen to him.”
