News - 31st August 2009

Statham inducted in Hall of Fame

Former Lancashire and England seam bowling great Brian Statham was inducted into the ICC cricket hall of fame at Old Trafford during the NatWest International Twenty20 on Sunday.

Statham’s widow, Audrey, accepted her late husband’s commemorative cap as part of the joint venture between the International Cricket Council and the Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations.

ECB Chief Executive David Collier, alongside Lancashire Chairman Michael Cairns OBE plus ICC Cricket Committee Chairman and Lancashire great Clive Lloyd presented Mrs. Statham with her husband’s cap.

The right-arm seamer, who died in 2000, represented England in 70 Tests taking 252 wickets and was regarded as one of his country’s greatest bowlers. He appeared in 559 first-class matches for Lancashire, claiming 2,260 wickets in a career that lasted 18 years.

Statham captained Lancashire from 1965 to 1967 and took 761 of his first-class wickets at Old Trafford. Lancashire have named one end of the ground after the former fast bowler.

Statham, whose best Test haul was against South Africa in June 1960 when he took 11-97 at Lord’s, featured in an England side that included two other hall of fame members, Fred Trueman and Sir Colin Cowdrey.

He played seven Tests at Old Trafford, taking 16 wickets in front of his home crowd.

Statham’s widow said: “This award would have meant a great deal to Brian. He would have been extremely pleased that his achievements are still being recognised today.

“He is amongst many friends in the ICC cricket hall of fame who had great respect for each other. He enjoyed the company of cricketers and was rightly referred to as the gentlemen of the game.

“Brian was a great acceptor of people and was always talking with Lancashire members and fans. He thought it was a privilege to play cricket as it was his passion.”

Cairns added: “It’s a real privilege for me to be part of a presentation party honouring a true Lancashire and England legend.

“Brian Statham will be remembered by Lancashire members and spectators not only for his contributions to cricket but as a real gentleman of the game.

“This quietly spoken, unassuming man let his talent do the talking and it’s only fitting that the sports governing body induct him into their hall of fame.”

Photos copyright of:  Simon Pendrigh