-
Harold “Dickie” Bird at a cricket match
Legendary English cricket umpire, Harold “Dickie” Bird, has died at the age of 92.
Bird, one of the most beloved umpires in the history of the game, officiated in 66 Tests and 69 One Day Internationals, including three World Cup finals.
He made his umpiring debut in 1970 and was famously reluctant to raise his finger for LBW appeals.
Fortunately for him it was before the days of DRS, but he was at least consistent in offering the benefit of the doubt to batters.
One of Bird’s most memorable moments included his decision, during the England West Indies Test at Old Trafford in 1995, to call a halt to play for excessive sunlight.
The sun had been reflecting off an open window behind the bowler’s arm, making life difficult for the batters.
He retired in 1996.
