Dickie Bird: Legendary cricket umpire dies aged 92 - 'One of Yorkshire's greatest characters'
Published 23/09/2025 at 13:53 GMT+1
Harold Dennis "Dickie" Bird has died at the age of 92. He will be "remembered as one of the greatest characters in Yorkshire's history" and for his "eccentricities and warmth", said his former club following the news. Bird was revered as one of the greatest umpires throughout a career that spanned more than two decades and included 66 Tests.
Dickie Bird
Image credit: Getty Images
Harold Dennis "Dickie" Bird has died at the age of 92.
The former cricketer established himself as one of the most well-known and respected umpires in the sport over a long career that included 66 Tests and 76 one-day internationals from 1973 to 1996.
Bird served as president for his former club, Yorkshire, who paid their respects.
"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," read a statement on the Yorkshire County Cricket Club website.
"He officiated in 66 Test matches and 69 One Day Internationals, including three World Cup finals - earning the admiration of players and fans alike for his integrity, humour, and unmistakable style.
"Dickie Bird became a national treasure, known not only for his umpiring excellence but also for his eccentricities and warmth.
"He was appointed an MBE in 1986 and an OBE in 2012 in recognition of his outstanding contribution to cricket.
"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 of the greatest characters in Yorkshire’s history.
"Further details regarding memorial arrangements will be shared in due course, and the Club will be looking to honour him in a variety of ways in the coming weeks."
Bird played for both Yorkshire and Leicestershire as a batter, featuring in 93 first-class matches and scoring two centuries.
He played alongside England great Geoffrey Boycott, but it was his career as an umpire that made him one of cricket's household names.
Bird oversaw his final match as an umpire in 1998 as Yorkshire played Warwickshire at Headingley.
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