Web desk: Former Test umpire Dickie Bird has passed away at the age of 92, the Yorkshire County Cricket Club confirmed.
Bird officiated in 66 Test matches between 1973 and 1996 following a playing career with Yorkshire and Leicestershire.
Widely regarded as one of the most recognisable umpires of his time, he was appointed president of Yorkshire in 2014.
In a statement, Yorkshire said: “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 of the greatest characters in Yorkshire’s history.”
After his first-class playing career was curtailed by injury, Bird rose to prominence as one of the game’s most recognisable officials.
He oversaw 66 Test matches and 76 one-day internationals between 1973 and 1996, including three World Cup finals.
Yorkshire, his home county where he played and later served as president, hailed him as a “national treasure” admired for his skill, eccentric charm and warmth.
“He leaves behind a legacy of sportsmanship, humility and joy, and a legion of admirers across generations,” the club said in tribute.
Born in Barnsley, Bird played alongside England great Geoff Boycott and broadcaster Sir Michael Parkinson, maintaining lifelong friendships with both.
A right-handed batter, he represented Yorkshire before moving to Leicestershire, appearing in 93 first-class matches and scoring two centuries.
Although a capable player, Bird became synonymous with umpiring. For a time, his tally of 66 Tests was a record.
He retired after his final match in 1998, a county fixture between Yorkshire and Warwickshire at Headingley, a ground he continued to visit regularly.
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