ICC pays respects after passing of Dickie Bird
The International Cricket Council extends its condolences on the passing of legendary former England umpire Harold ‘Dickie’ Bird, who has died at the age of 92.
Harold "Dickie" Bird, one of the most beloved umpires in cricket's history, who has officiated in multiple ICC event finals, passed away at the age of 92.
In a statement, ICC Chairman Mr. Jay Shah said Bird was one of the most respected umpires in the game and someone who continued to be remembered fondly long after his retirement.
"Dickie Bird was more than just an umpire, he was a symbol of integrity in the cricketing world. With his unmistakable presence and unwavering fairness, he earned respect not just from players, but from fans globally who admired his passion for the game," said Mr. Shah.
"To have stood in three World Cup finals and in so many iconic matches is a testament to the trust the cricketing community placed in him. But perhaps more than his remarkable career, it was his love for the sport and his enduring connection with people that truly set him apart.
"The cricket world has lost one of its most beloved figures, and we join fans around the globe in remembering a true gentleman of the game."
Dickie Bird waves to the crowd after his 66th and final Test match as an umpire in 1996 // Getty Images
Before becoming one of cricket’s most recognisable umpires, Bird enjoyed a first-class playing career with Yorkshire and Leicestershire, scoring two centuries in 93 matches.
He officiated his first first-class match in 1970 and made his Test debut as an umpire in 1973, going on to stand in 66 Tests and 69 One Day Internationals. He had also officiated in three ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup finals, including the inaugural edition in 1975.
His final Test came at Lord’s in 1996 between England and India, where he was honoured with a guard of honour by both teams and a standing ovation from the crowd.
Bird’s popularity extended well beyond the field, with his autobiography My Autobiography selling over a million copies.
Following his retirement, he established the Dickie Bird Foundation to support under-18 sportspersons in need, and in 2012, he was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE).