Walter Livsey (1893-1978) was one of the greatest wicket keepers of the 1920s. However, he never played for England. His career was halted by war, blocked by Herbert Strudwick, frustrated by injury, and ultimately curtailed by illness. In 320 first-class matches, Livsey claimed 648 dismissals. And incredibly, in this ‘standing back’ age, 266 of them were stumpings. Strudwick by comparison effected 258 stumpings, but he played twice as many first-class games as Livsey. Exceptional promise Born...
Magic Mike – The Story Of Richard Arthur Henry Mitchell
We’ll have our say on the 1st Test in Antigua after the game. In the meantime, Robert Meakings takes us back in time to look at the career of Henry Mitchell. I’m hoping we can do more cricket history articles in the coming months, so get in touch if you’d like to take part. Cheers. Before W.G. arrived on the scene, R.A.H. Mitchell, affectionately known as ‘Mike’, was regarded as England’s finest amateur. Mike’s magnificent 82 for Eton against an M.C.C. XI in 1860 announced his...
Selection Not To Blame
Many of England’s critics, including the editor of this platform, have blamed everyone from Chris Silverwood to the ECB itself for our Test team’s failings in recent times. But are we being too harsh? After all, it’s extremely hard to beat India away from home. It always has been. And surely there’s no shame in losing to New Zealand, who are a very fine side, with key players like Stokes missing? Today new writer Robert Meakings states the case for the defence …...