Connections and History: A Journey through the North of England Through Nine Significant Artefacts
In the world of cricket, the past is brimming with tales of exceptional players, unforgettable matches, and unique traditions. Let's delve into some captivating stories from the annals of English cricket.
Jack Knutton, a turn-of-the-century cricketer, was known for his unusual arm brace, worn while bowling to prove his legitimacy. The design of this brace resembled that used by Muttiah Muralitharan, another renowned bowler, in later years. Knutton had a reputation for throwing, but his arm brace was a testament to his determination to debunk such accusations.
In 1882, a party, including the esteemed W.G. Bates, set sail for Australia to bring the Ashes back. Bates, an exceptional cricketer, topped the averages for the tour and the Tests in 1881/82, but was not picked at home in 1882. However, he made spectacular amends in the Second Test of 1882, with match figures of 14-102, including England's first hat-trick.
Worcestershire, another storied club, embarked on an overseas tour in the early 1960s. The team, comprising twelve players, two club members, and Joe Lister as manager, enjoyed a happier tour, winning their maiden County Championship and going on a celebratory round-the-world trip. The team's only loss came in their second first-class game against Rhodesia.
Derbyshire, too, has its share of cricket history. In 1936, the team won the County Championship with 13 victories. A small monogrammed suitcase, a token of appreciation from the committee, is one of the many relics preserved by Derbyshire. The only known survivor of these suitcases is that of Albert Alderman, a player who achieved fame in the 1936 County Championship with a remarkable catch.
Meanwhile, in Durham, a collage made from Don Robson's ties is displayed on the wall of the Graveney Lounge at Riverside. Robson, a key figure in Durham's fundraising for first-class status and a permanent ground, is still referred to as "Mr Durham." Riverside, Durham's cricket ground, bears Robson's name.
Another intriguing tale involves a cricket match played on the SS Lusitania in 1894, where Alfred Shaw, a Nottinghamshire bowler, took 40 wickets. The ball used in this match has survived and is kept in a cardboard box in the Nottinghamshire archives.
Colin Milburn, a player who caused occasional sensation for county and country, signed for Northamptonshire in 1960. In 1969, he made 139 on a nasty pitch in Karachi in a Test that was abandoned because of political riots, earning him the Walter Lawrence Trophy for the quickest century that year. Milburn's England blazer, worn in Pakistan, has pride of place in a presentation case at Wantage Road, Northamptonshire's home ground.
Lastly, a seafaring tale involves a cricket match played on the SS Lusitania in 1894, where Alfred Shaw, a Nottinghamshire bowler, took 40 wickets. The ship, however, ran aground in thick fog off Newfoundland in 1901, but all passengers were saved.
These tales, amongst many others, serve as a testament to the rich history of English cricket and the enduring passion of its players and fans. From the leather and bone arm braces to the small monogrammed suitcases, these relics offer a glimpse into the past, reminding us of the traditions and the spirit that have shaped the game we love today.
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