Dickie Bird, one of cricket’s most beloved umpires, dies at age of 92

Dickie Bird dies at age of 92. (Photo: ICC)

Dickie Bird, the renowned former Test cricket umpire who was adored by all players, passed away at the age of 92.

His demise was announced by Yorkshire Cricket Club, who said in a statement: “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 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.”

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.

— Yorkshire CCC (@YorkshireCCC) September 23, 2025

During his lengthy and illustrious 26-year umpiring career, Bird set records for the most Test matches (66) and one-day internationals (69) he officiated. He also became possibly the most well-liked official in all of sport. His oddities provided for some unforgettable anecdotes and contributed to his charm.

Throughout his life, Harold Dennis Bird was known by the moniker "Dickie," which he acquired in school.  Growing up in Barnsley, the son of a coal miner, Bird took pride in his working-class heritage and Yorkshire identity, eventually representing his country.

Remembering a Yorkshire legend.  pic.twitter.com/R4FVPA4Xqx

— Yorkshire CCC (@YorkshireCCC) September 23, 2025

Bird enjoyed opening the batting and was a useful player, but his development was hampered by a chronic knee problem. Despite never playing for his country, he amassed over 3,000 runs for Yorkshire and Leicestershire at an average of 20.71.

Bird began umpiring at the age of 36. At Yorkshire's home field, Headingley, he umpired his first county game in 1970 and his first Test match three years later during the New Zealand visit.

Bird was moved to tears when India and England presented him with a guard of honor prior to his final Test match in 1996. He has always had a passion for cricket, and in 2014 he was honored to be elected President of Yorkshire CCC, which he called the "greatest cricket club in the world."