Alex Bleakley

Alex Bleakley, born on 29th May 1991, carved a niche for himself in the annals of English cricket with a blend of grit and elegance. His journey from the quaint cricket fields of Norwich to the thunderous applause of packed stadiums is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence and passion for the sport.

Bleakley's cricketing journey began in the local leagues, where he quickly became known for his impeccable timing and technical prowess with the bat. As a right-hand batsman, his natural flair and ability to play both pace and spin made him a standout talent. By the age of 18, he'd already earmarked himself as a future star, earning a call-up to the under-19 national team. His professional debut for Essex in the County Championship was a sight to behold; a half-century on debut in 2010 set the tone for a remarkable career.

Major achievements pepper Alex Bleakley's career, with his contributions pivotal to Essex's County Championship victories in 2017 and 2019. He etched his name into the history books during the 2018 season, scoring a colossal innings of 236 against Somerset, which to this day remains a club record.

Rivalries added an intriguing layer to his career. His duels with Kent's pace spearhead, Max Palmer, became the stuff of legends. Each match-up was eagerly anticipated, showcasing Bleakley's fortitude under pressure and earning him accolades as a clutch performer.

Blessed with a classical style, Bleakley was noted for his straight drives and cuts. His right-arm fast-medium also provided a handy option for breakthroughs, albeit more of a support role. Bleakley’s knack for producing key wickets in tight matches was invaluable.

But it was not just the runs and records. Bleakley's heartening knock against Lancashire in the 2016 semi-final, where he battled cramps to score a match-winning century was a moment that underscored his resilience and single-minded focus on the team’s success.

Alex Bleakley may not have strutted on the international stage as some of his peers, but his impact on the domestic scene, his unwavering dedication, and ability to perform when it mattered has left an indelible mark on English cricket. His story serves as an inspiration for young cricketers dreaming beyond their village greens.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats