CRICKET icon Dickie Bird, one of the most beloved figures in the sport, has passed away at the age of 92.
The legendary umpire and former player, whose official name is Harold Dennis Bird, died peacefully at home.
GettyYorkshire cricket icon Dickie Bird has passed away[/caption]
Dickie became one of the most beloved names in the sportPA
A statement from Yorkshire County Cricket Club read: “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.
“Dickie Bird enjoyed an illustrious career as an international umpire, writing his name into history as the most famous and popular official in the game’s history.
“He is synonymous with Yorkshire Cricket, where he has been one of the most loyal supporters. In 2014, he was named President of The Yorkshire County Cricket Club, a role he held with pride and distinction, with the Club winning two County Championship titles during his tenure.”
The statement concluded: “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.”
The club will also honour Bird “in a variety of ways” over the coming weeks.
Born in Barnsley, Dickie kicked off his professional cricket career with Yorkshire in 1956 and spent three years with the club.
He then went on to spend three years with Leicestershire.
After retiring from his county cricket career, he became an umpire and quickly established himself as one of the best in the game.
Dickie officiated in 66 Test matches and 69 One Day Internationals, including three World Cup finals.
GettyThe former cricketer became a legend at Yorkshire CCC[/caption]
News Group Newspapers LtdDickie officiated in 66 Test matches and 69 One Day Internationals, including three World Cup finals[/caption]
The cricketer – who claimed to have met Queen Elizabeth II 29 times – was appointed an MBE in 1986 and an OBE in 2012 in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the sport.
Fans and clubs have flocked to social media to pay tribute to the cricket legend, along with those who knew him personally.
Rachael Boycott, the wife of ex-Yorkshire cricketer Geoffrey Boycott, said: “Sadly Just been told Dickie Bird passed away in the night.
“The Hawke room balcony @YorkshireCCC just won’t be the same without him sitting there whatever the weather. Will miss him – RIP Dickie.”
Former Crystal Palace, Liverpool and Leicester City footballer Stan Collymore wrote: “Sad news about the passing of Dickie Bird, at 92. For several generations his name simply meant cricket, such was his association with the sport he served so well and loved so much.
“Rest in peace, Dickie.”
Leicestershire County Cricket Club said: “Leicestershire CCC is saddened to hear of the passing of Dickie Bird. He represented the Foxes in the early 1960s, scoring over 1,000 runs in his debut season at Grace Road.
“A true cricketing icon whose contribution to the game will never be forgotten.”
While Barnsley FC chief executive Jon Flatman said in a statement: “
Barnsley has today lost a legend of the sporting world. Dickie had an incredible life, and Barnsley, as a town and football club, meant a lot to him.
“He was defiantly passionate about his roots here in Barnsley and his journey, which led him to become one of the most famous cricket umpires in the world.
“All of our thoughts at the Club go to Dickie’s family and those closest to him at this difficult time.”
Barnsley will pay tribute to Dickie before tonight’s Carabao Cup match against Brighton with a minute’s applause.
PAFans, clubs, and those who knew Dickie have shared tributes on social media[/caption] Creator – [#item_custom_dc:creator]
