Cricket legend Dickie Bird dies aged 92 as tributes pour in

Bird, born in Barnsley in 1933, became the most recognisable umpire in world cricket.

He stood in 66 Test matches and 69 One Day Internationals, including three World Cup finals.

Known for his integrity, humour and distinctive style, he earned admiration from players and supporters across the globe and became a much-loved ambassador for the sport.

His path to umpiring came after a brief first-class playing career with Yorkshire and Leicestershire was cut short by injury.

He turned to officiating, where he forged a career that made him a household name far beyond cricketing circles.

Bird’s contribution to the game was recognised with an MBE in 1986 and an OBE in 2012.

He was appointed president of Yorkshire County Cricket Club in 2014, a role he held with pride as the county won back-to-back County Championship titles during his tenure.

“Dickie Bird was one of cricket’s greatest characters,” Yorkshire CCC said in a statement.

“He will be truly missed by everyone at the club and across the cricketing world. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.”

Often described as a “national treasure”, Bird was celebrated not only for his umpiring but for his eccentricities and warmth, qualities that endeared him to generations of cricket fans.

Yorkshire CCC said details of memorial arrangements will be announced in due course, with plans to honour Bird’s legacy in the coming weeks.

And fans on social media have paid their respects. One user wrote: "A great man, a cricket legend from the good times. Rest in peace Dickie, there’s no bad light where you’re going."

A second stated: "A fine innings. RIP Dickie."

Another added: "One of the finest umpires and a man who loved cricket to the very core. Remember getting his books signed at Hove, what a lovely man he was. RIP Dickie!"

And a fourth said: "I didn’t know Dickie as a cricketer but oh he was a wonderful umpire. Go well Dickie Bird."