Hugh Waddup

Born in the picturesque town of Cascais, Portugal, on 28th February 1985, Hugh Waddup’s journey to cricketing eminence is as intriguing as it is inspiring. In a country better known for its footballing prowess, Hugh’s love for the bat began amidst the sun-drenched afternoons of his coastal hometown. His initial forays into cricket were modest, playing on make-shift pitches, often with a tennis ball, honing his adaptable batting style that later became his trademark.

Relocating to England in his teens, Hugh embraced cricket with fervour, quickly rising through school ranks to catch the eye of county scouts. His professional debut came with Surrey at the tender age of 19, marking the beginning of a career adorned with remarkable achievements. Amidst the lush grounds of The Oval, Waddup’s agile footwork and keen eye for gaps soon became the scourge of bowlers across the county circuit.

Hugh’s journey wasn’t just about majestic centuries but also about his crucial role in Surrey clinching the County Championship in 2007 and 2013. His versatility extended beyond batting as he emerged as a part-time bowler who, while not possessing raw pace, had a knack for breaking crucial partnerships with subtle variations and deceptive deliveries.

One cannot discuss Hugh’s illustrious career without mentioning his epic battles against Middlesex, his fierce rivals. The 2011 Benson & Hedges Cup saw Hugh scoring a swashbuckling 145* against them, a display of pure cricketing theatre that is remembered fondly by fans.

Waddup’s adaptable batting approach was often likened to a master craftsman adjusting his technique to suit varied conditions. Whether it was attacking flamboyance on a benign track or gritty resolve under cloudy skies, he had the innate ability to read the game situation.

One significant highlight of Hugh's career was his match-winning performance in the 2015 NatWest T20 Blast final. His blistering 78 off 42 balls not only steered Surrey to victory but also underscored his flair for the dramatic and his impact when it mattered the most.

Though injuries cut his career short before reaching the international stage, Hugh Waddup left an indelible mark on domestic cricket. An exemplar of passion and resilience, his contributions continue to inspire budding cricketers in Portugal and beyond, his story a testament to the unlikely paths through which greatness can be forged.

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Bowling Stats