Cricket’s most beloved umpire dies at 92

Wednesday, 24 September 2025 00:02 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Dickie Bird

Dickie Bird officiated in Asia Cup 1986 hosted by Sri Lanka

One of cricket’s most beloved umpires in cricket’s history Harold ‘Dickie’ Bird who officiated in the Asia Cup tournament hosted by Sri Lanka in 1986 has died at the age of 92 yesterday.

Bird, who officiated in 66 Tests and 69 ODIs, including three World Cup finals, carried out official duties in the Sri Lanka vs Pakistan matches of the 1986 Asia Cup with England colleague David Shepherd including the final which Sri Lanka won at a time when neutral umpires were initially making their appearance at international matches.

Bird also officiated in Sri Lanka’s match against New Zealand in the John Player Triangular tournament that was run alongside the Asia Cup and in Sri Lanka’s inaugural Test match in England played at Lord’s in 1984 and in 1991.

A first-class cricketer before taking to umpiring, Bird was appointed an MBE in 1986 and an OBE in 2012 in recognition of his outstanding contribution to cricket.