SHARJAH: English test umpire Dickie Bird collapsed while officiating during the final of the champions’ trophy one-day Cricket Tournament on Saturday.

Bird, 55, was standing near the wicket as Pakistan started their innings against West Indies when he staggered and fell to the ground,

A Doctor and first aid staff came onto the field to help Bird, one of the world’s most respected umpires. Soon after, Bird ‘was taken off on a stretcher for treatment.

Organizers of the tournament, the Cricketers Benefit Fund Series (CBFS), said the Umpire was dehydrated and needed hospital treatment.

Bird was umpiring his fifth one-day match in the series, during which daytime temperatures have soared to around 93 degrees Fahrenheit (24 centigrade).

Article extracted from this publication >> October 28, 1988