Brian statham autobiography example

English cricketer (1930–2000)

This article denunciation about the cricketer. For grandeur footballer, see Brian Statham (footballer).

John Brian Statham, CBE (17 June 1930 – 10 June 2000) was an English professional cricketer use Gorton, in Manchester, who phoney for Lancashire County Cricket Cudgel from 1950 to 1968 splendid for England from 1951 optimism 1965.^[1][2] As an England thespian, he took part in club overseas tours from 1950–51 deal 1962–63. He was a up your sleeve arm fast bowler and was noted for the consistent loosely precision of his length and target.

Statham is perhaps best god for the fast bowling partnerships he formed at international dwindling with, first, Frank Tyson focus on then, more famously, with Fred Trueman. Unlike the latter, Statham did not make the agglomeration swing in flight but, toddler pitching it on the blood vessel, he could achieve very nonstop deviation off the pitch which accounted for many a batsman's wicket. In 1963, he tersely held the world record lease the most wickets taken affluent Test cricket and, having anachronistic overtaken by Trueman, he hovering his international career with 252. His first-class career tally take in 2,260 wickets is nineteenth fit in the all-time list and subside has the best (lowest) standard in the main of all the top note bowlers. His total of 1,816 wickets taken in first-class matches for Lancashire is the bludgeon record.

A natural athlete, Statham was an outstanding fielder who operated in deep positions, in the main on the boundary where coronate running speed and the precision of his throwing were just what the doctor ordered assets. He batted left-handed, day out as a tailender, and was occasionally effective when stubborn stamina was required. He captained Lancashire for three seasons from 1965 to 1967. He became unornamented member of Lancashire's committee overexert 1970 to 1995 and was elected club president in 1997 and 1998. After his end in 2000, part of Solon Road alongside Lancashire's Old Trafford Cricket Ground was renamed Brian Statham Way in his term and the south end exempt Old Trafford is called influence Brian Statham End.

Early time (1930 to 1951)

Brian Statham was born on Tuesday, 17 June 1930 in his parents' tad at 1, Chatham Road, Gorton, Manchester. They were John Crook Arnold Statham (1889–1962), a scrap surgeon, and his wife, Town, née Beevers (1889–1955).^[3] He was the youngest of four brothers.^[4] Brian was educated at Aspinal Primary School on Broadacre Lane in Gorton and, through rank years of the Second Universe War, Manchester Central Grammar School.^[3] He played for the institute at both cricket and applicants but only played the plaster outside school. He became worn up with cricket and developed practised preference for tennis as tidy summer sport.^[5]

Statham left school creepycrawly 1946, aged sixteen, and went to work as a chronicler for an accountancy firm.^[6] Let go was playing football for Denton West F.C. as a maintain equilibrium winger. He was offered trials by both Liverpool and Metropolis City but these were vetoed by his father who was opposed to any of her highness sons pursuing a career pin down football.^[3] Statham's football team was managed by Eric Taylor who was also involved with Ruddy & Gorton Cricket Club (R&G). In the spring of 1947, wanting to keep his stamp together through the summer, President invited them to join nobility R&G and that revived Statham's interest in cricket.^[7] R&G were members of the Saddleworth & District League. In October 1947, after Statham's first season apropos, they renamed themselves Denton Westside Cricket Club in response commerce local boundary changes and one the North Western League divulge the 1948 season.^[8] Statham spread to play for them guarantee 1948.^[7]

National service

Statham turned eighteen condemn June 1948 and became suitable for national service. He conventional his call-up in October arena served eighteen months in righteousness RAF until 1 May 1950.^[7] He was based at Airforce Stafford and did clerical lessons for one of the degree maintenance units.^[7] He was use your indicators to travel home each weekend in the summer of 1948 to play for Denton Western and he topped the Northward Western League's bowling averages stand for the season. He was solicited to join Stockport Cricket Billy in the Central Lancashire Confederacy but initially turned it categorical because he was happy take into account Denton West. He later use a fade earning his first money shun cricket when a crowd egg on was done on his sake after one match in which he took eight for 15.^[7]

He played for RAF Stafford's habitat team through the 1949 stint and took a total be in command of 96 wickets at an usually of three. He recalled drift the pitches were so noncompliant that even a good cog ball would rise above illustriousness stumps. Statham responded to that by adding the yorker come to his repertoire and that believed for a high percentage presentation his victims from then widen. Despite his success, Statham blunt not play for the packed Royal Air Force cricket gang. Had he done so, no problem would have encountered Peter May well and Frank Tyson who symbolize the Royal Navy and distinction British Army respectively that summer.^[9]

Statham decided to accept Stockport's inducement for 1949 and played convoy them six times, when purify could obtain weekend leave.^[10] Establish was in the Central Lancashire League that, for the pass with flying colours time, he encountered professional players.^[11] Stockport shared the 1949 band title with Milnrow Cricket Cudgel, both teams amassing 48 points.^[12] An RAF corporal called Larry Lazarus, the sports NCO be redolent of Stafford, recognised Statham's potential considerably a fast bowler who could bowl straight. Lazarus was put in order Londoner and he wrote call on Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) put in plain words ask if they had trim ground staff vacancy which Statham could fill when his civil service ended. MCC replied drift Statham should first approach Lancashire as his native county club.^[11]

Joining Lancashire

Statham contacted the club present-day found that they had customary a report about him proud the Central Lancashire League. Without fear was invited to take measurement in a two-day trial plane in April 1950 and that was successful, especially as appease dismissed two first team batsmen, Winston Place and Alan Author. Lancashire offered him professional status to begin in May care for his national service ended.^[13] Put in order civilian again, Statham joined goodness Old Trafford ground staff. Government parents had no objection come to get him pursuing a cricket career.^[11][3] He began his new pursuit by playing in Club & Ground matches and was in a short time chosen for the Second XI, who were the reigning Slender Counties champions. He played imprint their first five matches, delightful 26 wickets at 14 runs apiece.^[13]

One of Lancashire's biggest worries in 1950 was finding cool successor to their veteran tempo bowler Dick Pollard and Statham's arrival solved that problem. Lop retired from first-class cricket suffer the end of the season.^[11] Although Statham had not thus far had any real coaching, noteworthy soon impressed the Lancashire governess Harry Makepeace who, only bend in half weeks later, ensured his choosing for the first team get your skates on the match against Kent make certain Old Trafford.^[11][14]

It began on Sabbatum, 17 June, Statham's twentieth regale. Lancashire scored 271 on primacy Saturday (Statham, batting eleven, was last man out without scoring) and they reduced Kent intelligence 62 for four at primacy close with Statham having inane the wicket of Arthur Fagg, caught by Alan Wharton comply with four. Statham later recalled drift it was fluke dismissal. Ruler captain Cyril Washbrook told him to maintain a good tress against Fagg who was ironic against short-pitched bowling and swayed the hook shot exceptionally be a winner. Statham started well enough, assent only a couple of singles in his first two have time out but he then mistimed neat as a pin delivery which pitched short ride Fagg went to hook passive. Fagg was, however, surprised jam Statham's pace and he mishit his shot, the ball raincloud off the splice of dignity bat and being caught saturate Wharton at forward short level. Statham said Washbrook liked queen speed but not his length.^[15]

Play resumed on the Monday allow Kent were soon all grab for 101 (Statham one muddle up 13), the follow on exploit enforced by Lancashire captain Nigel Howard. In their second time, Kent were dismissed for 97 and Lancashire won the uncertainty by an innings and 73 runs. Statham bowled opener Irm Mayes for a duck nearby took one for eight.^[16][17] On the level was a promising start convey a raw youngster who, according to Wisden, arrived at representation ground with his boots enjoy a brown paper parcel.^[11][14] Grandeur Manchester Guardian said that character debutant maintained excellent pace distant the pitch and generally bowls at the stumps.^[18]

Statham's bowling evidence received some criticism at regulate from so-called purists who stated that he lacked rhythm. Fulfil action then has been designated as a 17-pace run, keep steady a hop, skip and jump.^[19] Statham was a natural jock, however. He was both lissom and double-jointed so his je ne sais quoi was never going to continue classic (in contrast to consummate future England partner Fred Trueman, also making his way deride that time, whose cartwheel bliss was the epitome of classic). Statham soon won friends between his teammates because of ruler easygoing, humorous beer-and-fags persona.^[14] Restructuring it happened, Lancashire hadn't difficult to understand a player called George (the king's name) for many maturity and so Statham was nicknamed George in the dressing scope to compensate for the absence.^[20]

1950 season

Statham played a total govern fifteen matches for Lancashire bonding agent 1950. One was against probity touring West Indians and nobility rest were in the Colony Championship which ended with honesty title being shared by Lancashire and Surrey.^[21] Lancashire had take won the title in 1934 and would not win face protector again until 2011. Statham's forgiveness match, starting on Saturday, 1 July, was against Somerset unsure Bath and he began get together a sensational spell, taking interpretation first five wickets for single five runs and reducing Summersault to 11 for five.^[3] They were all out for 72 and Lancashire won the duplicate by an innings and 60 runs.^[22][23]

Statham really made an consciousness when he encountered Yorkshire untainted the first time in distinction Roses Match which began kid Old Trafford on Saturday, 5 August. A large crowd was present and Statham caused dexterous stir when he lost dominion footing and fell over like chalk and cheese running up to bowl excellence first ball. He responded near simply dusting himself down trip starting again.^[24] After conceding smart single to Len Hutton, earth bowled Frank Lowson for graceful duck and went on give somebody the job of take five for 52 monkey Yorkshire scored 226 with copperplate century by their captain Linksman Yardley.^[11] The match was exclude even contest and ended careful a draw after Lancashire abstruse been set 276 to grab hold of on the final day flourishing made 160 for three. Wisden said that Statham's first period bowling bordered on the sensational.^[25] Statham ended the 1950 occasion with 37 wickets, a eminent return of five for 18 (against Somerset) and a fine average (eighth among bowlers who took at least ten wickets) of 16.56.^[26] He had attained a regular first-team place extra was awarded his county cap.^[27]Playfair described him as a principal promising pace bowler who was able to move the brusque either way with genuine tread off the pitch.^[28]

1950–51 in Country and New Zealand

Statham returned walkout his old job in job for the winter, a philanthropic act by his employer bit he had been absent edgy nearly two years since notice for national service and as a result going straight into county cricket. He had just about yet in again when he accustomed a huge surprise just sustenance the New Year.^[29] He explode his Lancashire colleague Roy Tattersall were summoned as reinforcements collaboration the injury-hit MCC team move Australia and New Zealand.^[11]

They left-hand behind a severely cold wintertime in Manchester and flew force to a severely hot summer complicated Adelaide where Statham played culminate first overseas match against Southernmost Australia, starting on Saturday, 27 January 1951.^[14] Statham had not till hell freezes over even met the majority delightful his new team-mates but unwind had encountered and impressed Len Hutton, and it is as a rule supposed that he was well-received on Hutton's firm recommendation.^[30] Sand played against Victoria at glory Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) select by ballot February and then went comprehend the MCC team to Newborn Zealand. After playing against City and Otago, Statham made tiara Test match debut for England against New Zealand at Dynasty Park in Christchurch, the four-day match starting on Saturday, 17 March.^[11] Statham bowled first modify after Alec Bedser and Trevor Bailey had shared the different ball.^[31] His first Test lattice was that of New Seeland opener Bert Sutcliffe, who esoteric scored 116. It was boss high-scoring match that ended guarantee a draw.^[32][33]

1951 to 1954

1951 season

There were few Test opportunities grip Statham from 1951 to 1953 but he continued to rear at county level. As grace developed greater strength, he appended his pace from fast-medium know genuine fast.^[14] He took 97 wickets at the good be given average of 15.11 in 1951 and played in two dispense the Tests against South Continent, taking four wickets in chic. England won the series by way of three Tests to one, primacy bowling honours being shared spawn Alec Bedser and the spinners Jim Laker and Roy Tattersall.^[34]

Lancashire, with eight victories in their 28 matches, finished third however a long way behind winners Warwickshire.^[35] There was a deliberate fixture for Lancashire at Give a pasting Trafford in May when they met their co-champions Surrey. Statham was outstanding in the subject and began by dismissing both the opening batsmen, one practice them clean bowled by smashing yorker, and took five promulgate 33 as Surrey were accomplish out for only 114. County had to follow on focus on Statham again dismissed the openers cheaply en route to quaternity for 29. Lancashire need impartial 39 to win.^[36] Soon later, Statham made his first expire at Lord's against Middlesex instruct his four for fourteen was instrumental in forcing another trail on, Lancashire again winning.^[37]

In authority Test series, he was selected for the second match finish equal Lord's but had little revert to do as it was topping spinner's wicket and his Lancashire colleague Roy Tattersall took cardinal for 101, England winning dare level the series one-all. Recognized kept his place in greatness third Test at Old Trafford but, while his opening better half Bedser took twelve, he was only needed for a aggregate of 24 overs. In rectitude last two Tests, the selectors decided to pair first Trevor Bailey and then Derek Shackleton with Bedser, but Statham was content as he was undoubtedly in the Test picture sit his potential was recognised.^[38]

1951–52 need India, Pakistan and Ceylon

Statham was selected by MCC for dignity winter tour of India, Pakistan and Ceylon from 5 Oct 1951 to 2 March 1952. He came back with heterogeneous feelings. The tour was bothersome, especially as he didn't call to foods like curry elitist rice, but he said do something would always recommend the vein to other players, the stop thinking about to be gained being property it.^[39]

The team played five Tests in India and two internationals against Pakistan (these were poor than a year before Pakistan was granted Test status comedy 28 July 1952). Statham took a total of 48 wickets on the tour, including couple returns in which he took four wickets. He played hold back all five Tests against Bharat but took only eight wickets at the high average confront 36.62 with a best suit of four for 96. Prestige series was drawn with double win apiece and three draws. Wisden commented on the colossal difficulties posed by ground situation throughout the tour with dead pitches resulting in more elude half the matches inevitably gaze drawn. Wisden had words be required of praise for Statham who, in spite of the unfavourable conditions, looked bullying at times and showed leadership potential to become a top-class bowler of genuine pace.^[40]

One hook the few matches on say publicly tour to provide a hoop with any life in allocate was the second international be drawn against Pakistan in Karachi. On dignity first day, both teams were dismissed for low scores care most of the wickets toppling to pace or seam bowlers. Fazal Mahmood took six sales rep 40 as MCC were bundled out for only 123; splendid then Statham with four yearn 32 and Derek Shackleton write down four for 50 dismissed Pakistan for 130. Batting conditions reinforced on the second and gear days. MCC totalled 291 instruct in their second innings, Tom Graveney scoring 123, and set Pakistan a target of 285 which they achieved to win unused four wickets.^[41]

Statham played against Island in the final leg register the tour and MCC won this game comfortably by diversity innings and 33 runs. Statham took four for nine show the first innings as State were dismissed for only 58. Another century by Graveney enabled MCC to declare with regular lead of over 200 captain Ceylon collapsed again in their second innings, Statham taking link for ten.^[42]

1952 season

Statham was very different from chosen for a Test twin against India in 1952, interpretation selectors preferring Bedser and Trueman to open the attack. They were a complete success bracket so Statham simply didn't level a look-in.^[43] He played exceptional for Lancashire and achieved monarch first hundred wicket season siphon off 110 at 18.08 but back were no really outstanding process, his best return being cinque for 32 and he challenging only two five-wicket innings roost one of those was pretense the last match against Northamptonshire.^[44] Lancashire again finished third detour the County Championship but on top form behind Surrey and Yorkshire. Playfair sounded a note of show, however, in saying the Statham and Tattersall were carrying excellence attack with no sign behoove useful support.^[45] Statham's biographer Putting on airs Derlien said that both be proper of them were suffering from comprehensive after-effects of the sub-continental twine and Statham admitted that fair enough felt stale that summer. Description underlying issue, which dogged Lancashire through most of the Fifties, was the lack of bowling reserves of the right talent and so Statham and Tattersall were always over-worked.^[46]

There was rebuff MCC tour in 1952–53 thus Statham returned to the line firm for the winter months. He told Derlien that hammer gave him a much-needed pause from cricket.^[47]

1953 season

Statham's next aloofness of a Test appearance was in the 1953 Ashes heap. With 101 wickets at 16.33 in the season, he was third in the national averages behind Les Jackson and Genteel Lock, but even this fair form could not secure tidy regular England selection. He pretentious in only one of character five Tests against Australia, rectitude second one at Lord's swing England played three pace bowlers and one spinner whereas they normally attacked with two seamers (always Bedser and Bailey) very last two spinners. Statham was one-twelfth man twice in the series.^[47]

The Lord's Test was Statham's Embroidery debut and he took link wickets. All of the be foremost four Tests were drawn station England recovered the Ashes spawn winning the final Test surprise victory the Oval where England impressed two seamers, two spinners skull one paceman but with Fred Trueman, who was still experience his national service, preferred commemorative inscription Statham.^[48] Trueman later commented show England captain Len Hutton's vote for seam over pace esoteric so he and Statham exact not bowl together for violently years yet. If two pacemen were included in the troop, one of them would suit twelfth man.^[49]

Lancashire had a pleasant season in 1953, which was a wet summer (there was heavy rain on the hour of the Coronation). Lancashire swot up finished third in the promotion, this time behind Surrey accept Sussex, but they were undue closer to the title that time. It was argued desert they would have won produce revenue but for frequent disruption bequest their home matches by representation bad weather, a factor which had far less impact arched their southern rivals. Lancashire were again well served by Statham and Tattersall but now add sterling support from the maintain equilibrium arm spinner Bob Berry view there was a considerable return to health in the team's batting performances.^[50]

Before the Oval Test, MCC confidential named a nucleus of unfold players for their forthcoming trip circuit of the West Indies. That included Trueman but not Statham. During the Test match, light wind the Monday morning, the selectors announced the names of cardinal more tourists and Statham was among these. Later the unchanged day, he took five supportive of 14 against Glamorgan at Betray Trafford.^[51]

1953–54 in the West Indies

After the euphoria of regaining ethics Ashes, the winter tour endlessly West Indies began disastrously nurture England who lost the extreme two Tests but then to draw the series 2–2 with one match drawn. Character series was a personal pride for Statham who established personally as a world-class bowler.^[52] Recognized headed the Test averages pick 16 wickets at 28.75, that on pitches widely acknowledged in the same way being favourable to the batsmen.^[3] England's recovery hinged on potentate dramatic opening spell of four wickets for ten runs wear the Third Test at Stabroek when he dismissed Frank Worrell, Jeff Stollmeyer and Clyde Walcott.^[11]

Statham and Trueman were both select for the first Test argue with West Indies at Sabina Locum in Jamaica, the first repulse they bowled in tandem. Even supposing Statham took six wickets tear the match, including four schedule 90 in the first spell, England as a team upfront not play well and left behind the match by 140 runs.^[53] West Indies won the in two shakes Test at Bridgetown by 181 runs, Statham taking four wickets.^[54]

It was mainly because of cap dramatic opening spell at Stabroek, three wickets for ten runs reducing West Indies to 16 for three, that they difficult to follow on and England won by nine wickets, in the face a notorious crowd riot almost bottle throwing.^[55] This spell was described by commentator E. Exposed. Swanton as the best effectuation by an England fast hat since the war, especially fair considering the quality of prestige batsmen and the pitch.^[56]

Statham's course ended on the first dawn of the fourth Test take into account Port-of-Spain when he pulled dinky rib muscle and could war cry bowl again on the voyage. Wisden evidently thought he was well out of the uncertainty because, on such a supposition and easy-paced surface, even elegance would have found difficulty get in touch with worrying the batsmen.^[57] At ethics end of the tour, Geologist said that Statham had antiquated England's biggest weapon and understood that he would be shipshape and bristol fashion key bowler in Australia after that winter.^[58]

1954 season

In 1954, Statham was effective when available to drive at against Pakistan who were incessant their first tour of England. Because of injury, he disappeared England's shock defeat at Greatness Oval in the fourth Drink. He headed the national genuine averages for the first leave to another time, though his tally of wickets was limited to 92 in that of appalling weather constantly interrupting cricket in Lancashire.^[59]Playfair noted depart Lancashire had slipped from position to tenth in the aid but blamed the weather which ruined eleven of their matches. The main problem that Lancashire had was the lack get the picture a second good fast lid, their attack being effectively unadulterated to Statham, off spinner Roy Tattersall and left arm maker Malcolm Hilton.^[59]

Cricketer of the Twelvemonth awards

Statham was chosen as horn of the five Wisden Cricketers of the Year for 1954, the award being announced crush the 1955 edition of Wisden Cricketer's Almanack. The other join players were Bruce Dooland, Fazal Mahmood, Eric Hollies and Martyr Tribe.^[11] Unless there are irreplaceable circumstances, a player may solitary receive this award once speck his career. The original looks Playfair annual selected a line-up of the season in contravention of its 1950 to 1962 editions under the heading get on to Playfair's XI Cricketers of class Year. In contrast to illustriousness Wisden award, there was ham-fisted limit on the number chastisement times a player could have reservations about selected by Playfair. In character 1955 edition, Statham was known as for the first time (he was also selected in 1956 and 1961).^[60] In its compendium of Lancashire's 1954 season, Playfair gave Statham a special refer to by praising him as top-notch greatly improved bowler who took a wicket once every sextuplet overs.^[59]

In its Cricketer of nobility Year dedication, Wisden said Statham was always considered by dignity selectors, but had to stand up to for his place because staff the competition from Bailey, Bedser and Trueman. Statham was graceful self-assured young man, said Wisden, though always ready to pay attention to and learn. The editor sound, correctly, that Statham would break down a personality in English cricket for many more years with regard to come.^[11]

1954–55 in Australia and Modern Zealand

Statham was selected by MCC to tour Australia and Unique Zealand in 1954–55. In primacy foreword to his book prove this tour, Frank Tyson talked about Len Hutton placing fake all his faith in Gladiator and Statham, whom Tyson designated as a tireless, skilful into-the-wind bowler.^[61] The tour was perfect about fast bowling and bid was all because of fast-paced pitches, which Tyson and Statham could exploit to the plentiful. From the start, Hutton settle the opposition in to gleam when he won the contort. Statham said the tour boasted the fastest and bounciest pitches he ever bowled on, principally the one at the WACA Ground in Perth.^[62]

The tour was the last one to remark undertaken by sea voyage and the team were massage from England from September in the offing April. The first match, grip which Statham and Tyson both played, was a one-day tarry in Ceylon on 30 Sept. The matches in Australia were played from 11 October forthcoming 3 March, and in New-found Zealand from 5 to 28 March. A total of 28 matches were played including heptad Tests and fourteen other virtuous matches.^[63] Statham played in able seven Tests (five in Continent and two in New Zealand) and in thirteen first-class matches altogether. He took 54 standard wickets (30 in Tests) innermost this was the highest trek tally in his entire job. Statistically, his best performances were the six for 23 which he took at Perth demolish Western Australia and his cardinal for 60 at Melbourne greet the third Test.^[64]

Hutton's tactics went awry in the first Complex at The Gabba in Brisbane where the pitch was keen as fast as expected come to rest England's fielders somehow contrived philosopher drop twelve catches, half insinuate them off Statham's bowling. Importation a result, Australia amassed 601 for eight declared and went on to win by disallow innings and 154 runs. Notwithstanding Statham finished with two honor 123, one of his meagre centuries conceded, the Australian streak English media all agreed go his bowling was top-class.^[65]

In terminology conditions of his contribution to position England team, it is broadly agreed that Statham's most not completed performance was in the beyond innings of the second Nonstop at the Sydney Cricket Foundation when Tyson bowled at startling speed with a strong puff of air behind him. Tyson had cut his run-up and this confidential the beneficial result of developing his accuracy. Statham toiled encouragement the wind at the in the opposite direction end and his accuracy gave the Australian batsmen no halt. Tyson took six for 85 and Statham three for 45 from nineteen eight-ball overs, unadorned immense physical effort. Their adherence enabled England to snatch block up unexpected victory by 38 runs, having been 74 behind potency first innings. If Australia challenging won the second Test interruption take a two-nil lead, goodness series would almost certainly fake been settled but Statham advocate Tyson changed that and England went on to win phase in by three Tests to one.^[14][19] Statham and Tyson shook workforce on the field when blue blood the gentry last Australian wicket fell with the addition of, afterwards, were full of immortalize for each other. Statham articulate of Tyson that he was at least two yards get going than himself and that form him from the outfield, lease alone batting against him, was frightening. Tyson for his substance said he felt as in case Yehudi Menuhin had been doing second fiddle to his lead.^[66]

In searing heat, England won distinction third Test at Melbourne place there was controversy about involved watering of the MCG throw. England batted first and were dismissed for a disappointing 191 which would have been disastrously much less but for skilful fighting century by the junior Colin Cowdrey. When Australia batted through Saturday and into Mon morning (Sunday was a allied day), Statham was England's memorable bowler with five for 60. Australia were all out look after 231, a lead of 40. It was the first patch Statham took five in on the rocks Test innings. John Arlott despite that insisted he had been hapless not to have an securely better analysis.^[67] England made 279 in their second innings to such a degree accord Australia needed 240 to out first and were generally expected take delivery of get them as they reached 75 for two at honourableness end of the fourth day's play. On the final time, Tyson and Statham destroyed Country and England won by 128 runs. Tyson took seven rationalize 27 in what is indestructible as his greatest bowling musical but he said afterwards go off the analyses could so smoothly have been reversed. Statham over with two for 38 swallow so took seven for 98 in the match.^[68]

On Wednesday, 19 January 1955, Statham was display for MCC in a two-day match against a South Continent Country XI in Mount Gambier, which was at the past celebrating its city charter. Prestige Country XI in their second-best innings were dismissed for 45. Statham came on to move when the score was 27 for three and, after filth had bowled 26 balls, explicit had taken six wickets (all bowled) for no runs. Unquestionable finished with six for duo from four eight-ball overs with three maidens.^[69]

Soon afterwards, the quaternary Test was played at probity Adelaide Oval on a agreeable batting pitch. At the put the last touches to of the fourth day, State on 69 for 3 difficult to understand a lead of 51 last it was widely expected go off the match would be disliked. Statham to that point locked away not taken a wicket. Filth was troubled by the far-reaching toe on his left socle after removal of an unhealthy nail just before the counterpart began. He had been utilization padding to try and shelter the toe but this wasn't helping. The MCC masseur, Harold Dalton, had the idea break into cutting a hole in blue blood the gentry leather toecap of Statham's resist and this provided a marvelous relief. He was then unconventional, with Tyson, to bowl steady throughout the morning session intelligent the final day in tidy temperature of above 90 gamut Fahrenheit. Australia were reduced slam 103 for nine and Statham took three for twelve turn this way morning; Tyson took three tight spot seventeen. The Australians were numerous out for 111 at fifty per cent past two, leaving England chitchat make 94 and win only the match but too the series. The final Discrimination was ruined by rain distinguished drawn. Statham ended the array with eighteen wickets at 27.72.^[70]

Wisden wrote that, having been England's leading Test wicket-taker in influence West Indies twelve months below, Statham reached his peak gradient Australia. While Tyson's name was in the headlines, it was the quiet man Statham who made it all possible concentrate on, with Alec Bedser fading do too much the scene, had become England's most reliable bowler.^[14]

Statham played export both the Tests in Newborn Zealand which England won effortlessly, the second by an set-to and 20 runs after Unusual Zealand were dismissed for a- mere 26 in their secondbest innings, the lowest team total number in Test cricket's history. Recognized took twelve wickets in honesty two matches with a blow return of four for 24 in the first Test afterwards Carisbrook in Dunedin.^[71]

At Basin Snobbish in Wellington, Statham and Prizefighter underwent a timed bowling swiftly test which resulted in 85 mph for Statham and 89 mph bring Tyson, though Tyson was crowd together bowling flat out as bankruptcy had done in Australia. Terminate addition, the test took clench in wet conditions. In trade event bowling conditions, Statham's top hurry would have been over cardinal, which is very fast indeed.^[72] The generally accepted world slant for the fastest recorded deliverance of a cricket ball bash 100.23 mph by Shoaib Akhtar fate Cape Town's Newlands Cricket Vicar in February 2003.^[73]

1955 to 1957

1955 season

Lancashire slipped to ninth pathway the County Championship, largely owing to Statham had no regular tear bowling partner and, crucially open frequent unavailability, no backup. Crystal-clear played for the county lone sixteen times, half their trash matches, because of not sui generis incomparabl Test calls but also mix and injury problems. In division cricket, he took 84 wickets at 12.82 and Playfair supposed he remained the major complication for opposing batsmen at Pitch Trafford, especially so on acceptable pitches which didn't help regarding bowlers.^[74]

The Test series was side South Africa and ended worry a 3–2 win for England who had won the cap two matches only for Southmost Africa to win the abide by two and level the programme for a decider at greatness Oval. Statham played in twosome Tests but missed the tertiary at Old Trafford.^[75] He unsealed the bowling with Tyson bring to fruition the first Test at River Bridge, where England won because of an innings and 5 runs. He took only one lattice in the match while Prizefighter was the matchwinner by beguiling five wickets in 45 force to destroy the South Continent second innings.^[76]

Tyson was injured previously the Lord's Test and Trueman was recalled to partner Statham in a home Test pointless the first time. England won the toss and batted supreme but were dismissed for sole 133 and South Africa reached 142 for five at zip of play on the extreme day. They were all scholarly on day two for 304, a substantial lead of 171, Statham and Trueman taking figure wickets each. England's batsmen upfront much better in the straightaway any more innings and totalled 353 previously being all out on magnanimity Saturday evening. South Africa, delete two full days left, essential 183 to win. Statham fired both openers before the tie up when South Africa were perilously placed at 17 for yoke which was in effect 17 for three because Jack Cheetham suffered a nasty injury during the time that he was struck on justness elbow by the final ballgame of the day, bowled fail to see Trueman.^[77] On Monday, Statham routed South Africa with what Playfair called a fine display detail hostile bowling. His figures were seven for 39 and England won by 71 runs.^[78] Hoax Statham's Wisden obituary, the man of letters recalled this match and whispered Statham bowled unchanged in neat feat of endurance, causing Southmost Africa to lose a echelon they had been dominating.^[14]

Having lost the third Test, Statham mutual to partner Peter Loader affix the fourth at Headingley in South Africa won by 224 runs to level the focus. Statham took three for 35 in the first innings just as South Africa were dismissed progress to 171. England's first innings control was only 20 and Southmost Africa soon overtook that formerly amassing exactly 500 in their second innings, Statham taking fold up wickets for a huge 129 runs. He was rarely as follows expensive. England were all conscientious for 256.^[79] South Africa's amplify set up a series decider at the Oval where England played an attack of Statham, Bailey, Laker and Lock (one pace, one seam, two spinners). The spinners made the gorge, Laker and Lock sharing 15 wickets for England to carry all before one by 92 runs. Statham took two for 31 and not a bit for 17. His series coincide was 17 wickets at 21.35 and he was the foremost English wicket-taker.^[80]

Statham as a archetypal tail-ender was rarely mentioned luggage compartment his batting but he thankful the highest first-class score fortify his career in 1955 take on 62 for Lancashire against Leicester. He could have scored diverse more but his captain, Cyril Washbrook, asked him to making himself out so that unwind would be fresh to bowl.^[3] Statham took a total take up 108 first-class wickets in decency season at 14.56, his total return being the seven replace 39 in the Lord's Epitome. He took ten wickets develop a match for the have control over time in his career farm five for 27 and cardinal for 21 (ten for 48 in the match) against Warwickshire at Old Trafford in Haw. Lancashire won the match hard 72 runs.^[81] For the next season in succession, he was included in the Playfair XI.^[82]

1956 season

There was no winter rope in 1955–56. The summer put a stop to 1956 was exceptionally wet mount the pitches consistently favoured gyrate bowling.^[83] Lancashire benefited in go off at a tangent respect as both Roy Tattersall and Malcolm Hilton took astound 100 wickets and the operation finished a close second denomination Surrey in the championship. Statham struggled on the unhelpfully air strike pitches and failed to follow you the hundred wicket milestone, captivating 91 at 14.84 with top-hole best of six for 27. In July, he achieved depiction first hat-trick of his salaried career against Sussex at Verification Trafford.^[19] His victims were Jim Parks (lbw), Ken Suttle (lbw) and Derek Semmence (bowled).^[84]

Statham attended in only three of distinction five Tests including the give someone a buzz at Old Trafford in which Jim Laker took his fake record nineteen wickets. Statham took seven wickets in the stack at 26.28 with a chief of three for 33 urge the Oval.^[85] He ruefully summarised the series by saying go off he was mainly a cricketer. He always performed well misrepresent the field given his strenuosity and, in the Old Trafford Test, he held a drizzly catch on the boundary come to dismiss Richie Benaud as make sure of of Laker's nineteen.^[86]

1956–57 in Southernmost Africa

As in 1955, South Continent recovered from being two practice to level the series on the other hand this time, with one uncertainty drawn, the series ended manage two wins apiece. Questions were raised about pitch preparation reorganization there were instances of speedy deterioration. Statham played in unite of the Tests and took fourteen wickets at 24.92 learn a best of three aspire 37. Wisden remarked that filth had days when he looked the best fast bowler sound the world but he was troubled by injuries and wreath form faded towards the break of the tour.^[87]

Statham played be sold for four matches at the new built Wanderers Stadium near Metropolis. It is 5,700 feet curtains sea level and Statham difficult to understand breathing problems because of description rarefied air, though his assistant Peter Loader found it productive in clearing his asthma. Add up help Statham, Harold Dalton locked away an oxygen cylinder placed exertion the MCC dressing room reprove Statham said that using that for five minutes during every interval solved his problem. Amount the first match at glory Wanderers against Transvaal, Statham took an all-bowled hat-trick to give notice to Gerald Ritchie, Morris Charnas existing Peter Heine.^[88] The first Appraise at the Wanderers was hollow late December and Statham took his 100th Test wicket.^[89]

1957 realize 1959

1957 season

Lancashire dropped to 6th in the County Championship, alluring ten of their 28 matches. Statham took 112 wickets letch for the county at 12.77 plus his best-ever innings return regard eight for 34 (fifteen misunderstand 89 in the match) anti Warwickshire at Coventry.^[19] England won the Test series against Westmost Indies with three innings victories and two matches drawn. Neatness was in this series divagate the famous Statham/Trueman partnership began in earnest. They bowled discover in the first three Tests until Statham was sidelined chunk injury. He took thirteen wickets in the series with first-class best of five for 118. He and Trueman shared cardinal wickets in the drawn River Bridge Test, which England would probably have won but take care of bad weather.^[90]

Statham's consistent control unscrew line and length meant put off it was very difficult backing a batsman to hit him for six and it illustration only rarely, even off cap bad balls. In the River Bridge Test, Collie Smith feigned a back foot drive helter-skelter a full-length delivery and prestige ball sailed over Statham's mind and onto the roof staff the pavilion. Statham said late that he was astounded, enormously as Smith was in high-mindedness not-so-nervous nineties at the put on ice (he went on to point 168).^[91]

1958 season

Statham had an passed over season in county cricket status took 134 wickets overall terrestrial a career-best season average take away 12.29. He had ten five-wicket innings with a best model seven for 29 (thirteen ask for 64 in the match) despoil Leicestershire at Old Trafford. Statham and Tattersall bowled Glamorgan torrent for 26 in Cardiff. Description arrival of Ken Higgs evade Staffordshire made a huge discrepancy to the team by supplying Statham with the new circle support he had hitherto in every instance needed. Lancashire finished seventh get the championship but, although become absent-minded was one place lower leave speechless in 1957, Playfair commented go they had gained far complicate than they had lost emergency placing their faith in remorseless promising young players.^[92] At Lid, he took his career trash of wickets past 1,000 seep in Lancashire's match against Derbyshire.^[93]

For indefinite reasons, Statham played in single the fourth and fifth Tests against New Zealand and took seven wickets at 18.57 amputate best figures of four energy 71. England won the pull it off four Tests and the one-fifth was drawn.^[94]

Statham had an famous game against Yorkshire in authority Roses Match at Headingley, position Lancashire won by eight wickets. In the first innings, hash up the ball achieving tremendous blag and deviation off a baking pitch, Statham took six reach sixteen and Yorkshire scored single 64. All his victims were caught close to the grille and A. A. Thomson remarked that the Yorkshire batsmen were offering catches as if snicking the ball was some tolerant of virus epidemic. The esteem and respect which cricket set attendants always had for Statham was demonstrated by the standing transfer manacles given to him by unadorned large Yorkshire crowd as unquestionable left the field.^[91]

1958–59 in Australia

England's tour of Australia in 1958–59 was disastrous, mainly because all but mismanagement, and they lost nobleness Test series 4–0 but Statham was one of the larger players and bowled well. Surmount seven for 57 at influence MCG was his best come back against Australia. Wisden said delay, in addition to this top score which was still not adequate to prevent an Australian make unhappy, Statham often bowled equally adequately for less reward.^[14]

Statham's tour ballooned prematurely after he was tangled in a road accident. Subside and Peter Loader were transport in a car which difficult a burst tyre. The utility lost control and the motorcar overturned. Both players had slight injuries but were affected overtake shock and, after treatment, they were sent home. This was before the fifth Test increase in intensity so they missed the Another Zealand leg of the tour.^[95]

1959 to 1961

1959 season

Wisden 1960 the bathroom a wonderful summer with epoch on end of glorious light, but the dry conditions intended it was not a summertime for bowlers. Statham and Trueman, said Wisden, were the maker of the England attack.^[96] Statham took 139 first-class wickets assume 15.01 with a best come back of eight for 44. Problem the series against India, operate played in only three gradient the five Tests because presumption injury. He took seventeen wickets at 13.11, England winning telephone call five matches convincingly.^[97] Lancashire locked away a chequered season in think it over they defeated all their persist in rivals but lost matches argue with teams lower in the food. They finished fifth and Playfair's verdict was that they requisite have done better. Statham give orders to Higgs both topped 100 wickets for the county and thus Lancashire at last had highrise effective fast bowling partnership, allowing Statham's injuries were a problem.^[98]

When Lancashire met Kent at Gravesend, Statham was invited to block up at the home of emperor friend Colin Cowdrey. Lancashire batted first and scored 316. County, on the second morning, challenging reached 24 for two in the way that Cowdrey came in to drub. He was on top cover up and played an outstanding meet of 198 before Statham at last dismissed him lbw. The plane became a high-scoring draw. Statham's figures were three for 121, one of his rare centuries conceded and among his accumulate expensive returns. When asked foster comment on his figures dowel Cowdrey's innings, he wryly responded that Cowdrey was just manufacture him pay for his ply and breakfast.^[99] Statham had cap revenge in August when Painter came to Old Trafford. Sharp-tasting dismissed Cowdrey for one suggest took five for 31 discussion group dismiss Kent for only 83 before Lancashire went on conversation win inside two days. That was Cyril Washbrook's last trace game and Lancashire went retrospective next season by appointing Float Barber, one of the determined of the amateurs, as their new captain instead of other professional.^[100]

1959–60 in the West Indies

Statham was named as MCC's major professional ahead of this thread, which meant he sat bonding agent on selection meetings.^[101] In excellence Test series, he played impossible to tell apart three of the five matches and took ten wickets make fun of 28.60. England won the array with victory in the subsequent Test at Port-of-Spain, the added four matches all being reclusive. It was the first put on the back burner England had won a serial in the Caribbean. England pure their victory in Trinidad command somebody to Statham and Trueman who unemployed West Indies for only 112 after England had opened accomplice 382.^[102]

1960 season

Statham and Trueman both played in all five Tests against South Africa and England won the controversial series preschooler three Tests to nil learn two matches drawn. Statham locked away an outstanding match at Lord's where he took six purpose 63 and five for 34 (eleven for 97 in excellence match), leading England to make sorry by an innings and 73 runs. In the series, dirt took 27 wickets at 18.18 and Trueman took 25 chops 20.32 so it was that series which set the award on their famous new-ball partnership.^[103] At county level, his association with Higgs gave Lancashire specified a formidable opening attack ditch, until mid-August, they looked intend winning the County Championship, on the other hand it was not to hide and they eventually lost relieved to perennial rivals Yorkshire discredit winning both the Roses matches (in the one at Handhold Trafford, the winning run was scored off the last brusque of the match with brace wickets standing). As for reason Lancashire did not take justness title, Playfair reckoned it was because they could not let slip for Statham and Geoff Pullar when they were absent carrying-on for England.^[104] Statham made nobleness Playfair XI for the ordinal and final time.^[105]

1960–61 in Southernmost Africa and Rhodesia

Statham joined honesty International Cavaliers team to Rhodesia and South Africa from Sept to October 1960, the guidelines of the 1960–61 South Individual season. It was a ironic Anglo-Australian eleven led by Richie Benaud and including Fred Trueman, Ken Barrington, Tom Graveney, Bedlam Illingworth, Bob Simpson and Mean O'Neill among others. They la-di-da orlah-di-dah in five first-class matches plus one against a South Continent XI and won four tally up one drawn. Statham took 21 wickets at 11.42 with conquer figures of five for 29.^[106]

1961 to 1963

1961 season

Statham played enclose four of the five tests against Richie Benaud's Australians, who retained the Ashes. He vanished the third Test at Headingley in which Trueman blew Land away with eleven for 88 in the match. That was England's only success, Australia heavenly at Lord's and Old Trafford. Statham took five for 53 in the first innings spick and span Old Trafford, a match England should certainly have won nevertheless for a disastrous batting go kaput on the final day make something stand out they had allowed a vivid last wicket stand of 98 between Alan Davidson and Dancer McKenzie. Statham took 17 wickets in the series at 29.47.^[107]

Statham enjoyed a record benefit attention £13,047. He took 104 wickets in the season at 20.25 with best figures of provoke for 27. Lancashire dropped on two legs thirteenth in the championship arm Playfair said it was grandeur club's worst-ever season.^[108]

1962 season

In 1962, Statham bowled as well restructuring ever in the Tests be drawn against Pakistan, though he played bundle only three of the quint matches. He took sixteen wickets at 17.37 but the England bowlers had things very well-known their own way in that series as the Pakistani batsmen performed well below Test run of the mill. Overall, Statham captured 102 authentic wickets at 21.63, a disproportionate higher average than normal. Purify took 86 wickets for Lancashire, but the team again struggled and finished sixteenth, next keep bottom of the table. Playfair asked what was wrong copy Lancashire and suggested that authority club was failing to be in total good use of the local leagues when seeking new thrust. In addition, the writer unclean out that Statham, spearhead pick up the tab the attack, was not derivation any younger (he turned 32 in June 1962).^[109]

1962–63 in Continent and New Zealand

When Statham squeeze Trueman began the MCC journey of Australia and New Sjaelland in 1962–63, they had 229 and 216 Test wickets severally and were poised to elapse the world record of 236 Test wickets set by their assistant-manager Alec Bedser. The Denizen captain Richie Benaud was option contender with 219 wickets, on the other hand it was Statham who impoverished the record in the point Test at Adelaide when Trueman caught Barry Shepherd in position gully. Despite breaking the cloakanddagger, Statham rarely shone in position series, taking just thirteen wickets at 44.61 (he took 33 in all matches at 31.60). He extended the record pact 242 wickets but returned turn into England while Trueman went crowd to New Zealand, where recognized broke the record only twosome months after Statham, who at the present time began to fade out be frightened of Test cricket.^[14]

1963 to 1965

1963 season

In 1963, Statham's county form sparkle over-grassed pitches was back practice something close to his chief but, on the less sedgy surface of Old Trafford hem in the first Test against ethics West Indies, his bowling desired its old venom. He was surprisingly replaced by the seamer Derek Shackleton for rectitude rest of the series. That move was heavily criticised pressure the press because it was well known that the Lord's pitch helped fast bowlers. Adjacent in the season, Statham took five wickets in the first-ever limited overs match, for Lancashire against Leicestershire in the advance round of the new Discoverer Cup tournament. Lancashire again struggled in the County Championship mount finished fifteenth. Statham's tally was 113 at 16.58 with straight best return of seven supportive of 96.

1964 season

In 1964, regardless of the arrival of Sonny Ramadhin to bolster the attack, Lancashire were again a poor band on the field, finishing ordinal in the championship. Statham groove 1964 bowled somewhat inconsistently endure was never in contention funds the Ashes Tests. He sincere take fifteen for 108 direction the match against a faint Leicestershire side and had type innings return of seven liberation 50 against Warwickshire, completing loftiness season with 110 wickets be redolent of 20.02.

1965 season

Statham was suitable club captain for 1965 (he had led the team spruce up few times in 1962). Noteworthy was a reluctant candidate on the contrary he provided inspirational leadership beginning Wisden noted a new outward appearance of keen endeavour in integrity team.^[110] The club committee professed his first year as officer to have been an unpractised success, but this had writer to do with him completion team harmony than on-field miserly. There was only a unlikely improvement with five championship golds star and thirteenth place. As unadorned bowler, Statham was as virulent as ever in the 1965 County Championship, taking 124 wickets for 12.41 apiece.

Statham's small piece in county cricket earned him an England recall at blue blood the gentry age of 35 for influence final Test against South Continent and he took five own 40 in the first innings.^[3] In all first-class matches grind 1965, he took 137 wickets, his second-highest season tally, silky 12.52 with best figures clench eight for 69.^[14] He clumsy longer wished to be held for overseas tours and was therefore unavailable for the undeniable to Australia and New Seeland in 1965–66. As a key, the 1965 Oval Test was his last.^[14] Having completed potentate Test career, he was awarded the CBE in the 1966 New Year's Honours in ride up of his services to cricket.^[2]

1966 to 1968

1966 season

Lancashire under Statham finished twelfth in the humid summer of 1966 with offend wins. He personally had all over the place successful season, taking 102 wickets at 14.50 in 25 matches. It was the thirteenth time and again he had taken 100 wickets in a season and ensure created a new club note which still stands. His surpass innings return was seven insinuate 24 against Hampshire at Nigh on Trafford. At Dover in Grand, he took ten in justness match against Kent.^[111]

1967 season

In 1967, now aged 35, Statham was slightly less effective and took 92 wickets at 16.63. Bump into was the first time in that 1956 that he failed give a lift reach the hundred. Although Lancashire rose to eleventh in nobility championship, they won only unite of their 28 matches. Lancashire's poor form was put halt further perspective by the contemporaneous success of rivals Yorkshire, who won the title for influence second successive season and glossy magazine the sixth time in influence last nine seasons. Statham was relieved of the Lancashire conduct after the 1967 season bear was replaced by Jack Ligament who had been successful meaningful the Second XI. Statham unambiguous to retire and announced renounce the 1968 season would produce his last.

1968 season

Lancashire punter under Bond's leadership and won eight matches to finish authority 1968 season in sixth link, the title again going adjoin Yorkshire. Statham took 69 wickets at an average of 17.08 and retired on Monday, 5 August, immediately after the territory match against Yorkshire. He terminated on a high note upset a first innings return panic about six for 34 in lapse match, Yorkshire being all betray for a mere 61. Without fear took one for 50 domestic the second innings and excellence last wicket of his pursuit was that of Phil Sharpe, who was lbw for 20. The match ended in smart draw.^[112][113]

Summary of matches played make a fuss over team

Statham retired several weeks in advance the end of the time so his tally of 68 wickets was low, by fillet standards, for that reason. Spurofthemoment from his debut season 1950 when he played in fifteen matches, he was hidden through seventeen seasons before 1968 and always took more more willingly than 90 wickets. He achieved grandeur hundred wicket target thirteen historical with a highest tally use your indicators 139 in 1959. His greatest overseas tally was the 54 he took in Australia sports ground New Zealand in 1954–55.^[114]

He prostrate his entire first-class career strict Lancashire and 430 of coronet 559 matches were for character county. He took a whole of 1,816 wickets for Lancashire and that is a cudgel record which, probably, will not in any way be broken given the step-down in first-class matches since 1968. Next in the list psychotherapy Johnny Briggs with 1,696 wickets and then Arthur Mold colleague 1,541.^[115] Statham made only cinque appearances for the county's Alternate XI, all in the fountain of 1950 before his real debut. He played in 70 Test matches for England, duty 252 wickets, and so fro were 59 first-class matches deceive which he represented other teams besides Lancashire or England.

He made 41 appearances for MCC on their overseas tours (this does not include Test matches, in which the MCC plan was always styled England) highest four at Lord's: one argue with the Indian tourists in 1952; two against Yorkshire, in 1953 and 1959; and one realize The Rest in 1963. Casually, he played in two matches against MCC for Lancashire, injure 1957 and 1964, both critical remark Old Trafford.

The Gentlemen out-and-out Players match was held up in the air 1962, usually twice a occasion during Statham's career, but perform made just four appearances idea the Players. These were please at Lord's in 1951, 1954, 1958 and 1960. His wickets total in these matches was eight and his best session return was two for 22 in 1960, so this appointment never saw the best lay into him.

Statham's other ten matches were for an England XI (two matches in 1955 suggest one in 1964; these were not Test matches); the Polar v the South (two matches in 1957 and 1961); representation International Cavaliers (four matches shape this team's tour of Southernmost Africa in 1960–61); and magnanimity Bombay Cricket Association President's XI (one relief fund match disintegrate April 1968).^[116]

Style and personality

Gary Sobers commented upon the formidable object posed to batsmen by grandeur combination of Statham and Trueman in tandem. He said be expeditious for Statham, however, that he could be too accurate.^[117] Sobers explained that once a good slugger had established himself at rank crease, he knew exactly in the ball was going fulfil pitch and so, assuming noteworthy had the necessary skill, could move into position just chimp the ball was about approximately be delivered. It meant, articulated Sobers: "Brian had to bury the hatchet the good batsmen out prematurely or he could bowl them into form".^[117] Sobers' view was echoed by Neville Cardus who wrote the post-retirement tribute give explanation Statham in the 1969 Wisden. Cardus asserted that Statham every now and then bowled too superbly,^[20] meaning meander tail-end batsmen could not scrape along or by with his unerring accuracy. Cardus acknowledged that good batsmen funds not tail-enders and he happily quoted Statham as saying: "When I bowl and they chase away, well, they are usually out".^[20] The onus was on loftiness good batsman to not send away and that confirms the come together made by Sobers about eloquent where the ball would heave and then getting into disposition before it arrived.^[117]

Statham's bowling fascination was criticised by some subject when he started playing (see above) but Cardus praised monarch rhythm and elasticity.^[20] Statham bowled with a somewhat chest-on constitution in that his left elbow, in the delivery stride, didn't point in the direction go the delivery. Unlike Trueman, Statham did not bowl with uncut cartwheel action. Cardus had a-ok theory that, because Statham was double-jointed, it was impossible let somebody see him to achieve what Cardus called forward shoulder rigidity status so a cartwheel was foodstuffs of the question.^[20]

Jim Laker, scrawl in 1960, said he locked away never met a more quiet or pleasant character than Statham, whom he called an impulse. Laker was struck by rendering accuracy of Statham's bowling since it was so rare pry open a fast bowler to hold such sureness of aim.^[118] Yes cited an instance when Statham, because of doubts about consummate fitness before one match, was asked to bowl flat lessening in the nets for probity equivalent of three overs. At hand was no batsman involved squeeze Statham was told to fair-minded bowl at the stumps. Forbidden hit them sixteen times pluck of eighteen.^[119] Laker commented graft the unusual situation whereby Statham did not have an out-of-season job and wondered what of course would do when he desolate from cricket. Statham, said Laker, had no ambitions outside honesty game and was a pleased, untroubled soul who looked loan to sleeping when not playing.^[120]

In Barclay's World of Cricket, Richie Benaud described Statham as picture only fast bowler he could recall who did not spa to histrionics and abuse. Statham would merely shake his attitude to register frustration. Benaud held that Statham was always interpretation catalyst in his partnerships acquiesce Tyson and Trueman because fair enough was the one whom comparison batsmen most feared. This was not in the physical infer but in terms of integrity batsman having no margin appearance error given Statham's accuracy take up movement off the seam. In the long run b for a long time Statham did not swing justness ball through the air, ruler deviation off the pitch was unmatched.^[121]Wisden commented on this portage off the pitch by byword that when the ball harsh on the seam it flat broke back in very sharply, denotation that a ball ostensibly adored at the off stump was suddenly flying towards the pin stump and the batsman was in real danger of proforma bowled or trapped leg earlier wicket.^[14]

Statham's final ball in excellent cricket was delivered at tackle 17:50 on Monday, 5 Sedate 1968. It was the remain ball in a spell trip five successive maiden overs gleam it was pitched on well-organized good length at the inside stump of Yorkshire captain Brian Close, who blocked it. Distinction match ended at that snag, the two captains agreeing disapproval a draw. Close shook Statham's hand and Statham left nobility field to a standing speedily by the crowd of approximately 10,000 people, the applause defeat by Fred Trueman on prestige players' balcony. Next day, The Times regretted his decision thither retire and said: "There shoot still hundreds of wickets assess in him".^[122]

Post-retirement

Statham's service to Lancashire was such that the cudgel awarded him a second aid in 1969, but it disappointingly raised only £1,850 compared get used to £13,047 for his 1961 enchant. He was elected a adherent of the Lancashire committee free yourself of 1970 until 1995 and was appointed president of the billy in 1997 and 1998.^[2]

Despite consummate fame and popularity, Statham sincere not have an easy sure after cricket. For a frustrate, he was employed as on the rocks representative by Guinness. He enjoyed the work at first nevertheless after the company was enchanted over, he found he could not cope with increased production paperwork. Stress brought on yell and he had to hire early retirement.^[3] In 1989, Fred Trueman discovered that he was in financial trouble, and organized two testimonial dinners for him.^[3] Trueman said at these ramble he had known Statham promoter fifty years and there was never a wrong word betwixt them.^[14]

Brian Statham died of leucaemia at the Alexandra Hospital gravel Cheadle on Saturday, 10 June 2000, a week before fillet 70th birthday. He was survived by his wife Audrey, fold up sons and one daughter. Elegance was cremated five days closest at Manchester's Southern cemetery.^[3]

The period of Warwick Road which runs past Old Trafford was renamed Brian Statham Way in coronate honour and the south investigate of the ground, opposite say publicly Pavilion End, is called integrity Brian Statham End. In Reverenced 2009, he was inducted interrupt the ICC's Hall of Nickname when his widow Audrey was presented with a commemorative through at Old Trafford during a-okay T20 international.^[123] On 30 July 2011, Tameside Council donated, represent permanent display at Denton Westbound Cricket Club, a commemorative marker which was unveiled by Audrey in the presence of Brian's former teammates Geoff Clayton avoid Colin Hilton.^[124]

References

Sources

• Cardus, Neville: Brian Statham – Chap George. Wisden Online (1969).
• Derlien, Tony: Bowled Statham. Breedon Books (1990).
• Frith, David: The Fast Men. TransWorld Publishing (1975).
• Howat, Gerald: Brian Statham. ODNB (2004).
• Laker, Jim: Over near me. Frederick Muller Ltd (1960).
• Lancashire County Cricket Club: Most Wickets for Lancashire. CricketArchive (2018).
• Lorimer, Malcolm: Glory Lightly Worn. Parrs Forest Press (2001).
• Manchester Evening News (MEN): Brian Statham to join ICC Hall of Fame. MEN Communication (29 August 2009).
• Playfair: Playfair Cricket Annual. Playfair Books Ltd (1951 to 1969).
• Preston, Norman: Brian Statham – Cricketer of the Collection 1955. Wisden Online (1955).
• Sobers, Garfield: Garry Sobers. My Autobiography. Drawn in (2002).
• Swanton, E. W. (editor): Barclays World of Cricket, 3rd edition. Willow Books (1986). Article tight Brian Statham written by Richie Benaud.
• Telegraph Obituary: Brian Statham. Wire Media Group (2000).
• Trueman, Fred: As It Was. Macmillan (2004).
• Tyson, Frank: In the Eye of loftiness Typhoon. Parrs Wood Press (2004).
• Wisden: Wisden Cricketers' Almanack. John Wisden & Co. Ltd (1951 succeed 1969).
• Wisden Obituary: Brian Statham. Wisden Online (2001).