Raymond Robertson Glasgow

Raymond Charles Robertson-Glasgow, lovingly known as "Crusoe" to his friends and colleagues, was a highly regarded cricket player and celebrated cricket writer from England. Born on July 15th, 1901, Robertson-Glasgow attended Charterhouse School before pursuing higher education at Oxford University.

During his school days, Robertson-Glasgow showcased his cricketing skills as an opening batsman and fast-medium bowler. In his second year at Charterhouse, he scored an impressive 537 runs, averaging 38.36, and took 44 wickets at an average of 18.52. Notably, he achieved a commendable performance of six wickets for 90 runs against Winchester.

After joining Oxford, Robertson-Glasgow earned a Blue as a Freshman and represented the university against Cambridge for four consecutive years, from 1920 to 1923. Alongside his university commitments, he also played for Somerset County Cricket Club, making sporadic appearances from 1920 until 1937. Additionally, he featured in five matches for Gentlemen vs. Players between 1924 and 1935.

Throughout his first-class career, Robertson-Glasgow garnered a total of 2,083 runs with an average of 12.93. As a bowler, he dismissed 464 batsmen at a cost of 25.74 runs each and held 79 catches. Recognized for his ability to swing the ball significantly, he delivered memorable performances such as nine wickets for 38 runs in the first innings against Middlesex in 1924, and seven wickets for 56 and seven for 50 against Sussex at Eastbourne in the same year.

Notably, Robertson-Glasgow's highest individual innings was 80 runs against Hampshire at Taunton in 1920. His batting prowess was demonstrated in partnerships with his Somerset teammate A. Young, where they shared stands of 160 runs against Essex and 139 runs against Worcestershire.

Robertson-Glasgow's nickname, "Crusoe," was bestowed upon him during a match between Somerset and Essex. C. P. McGahey, the amateur player representing Essex, was dismissed so quickly that the next batsman, who hadn't witnessed the event, asked for an explanation. McGahey replied, "First ball, from a chap named Robinson Crusoe." The nickname stuck and became popular among his friends and fans.

Aside from his cricketing achievements, Robertson-Glasgow possessed a delightful personality. His infectious laughter and infallible sense of humor endeared him to everyone he encountered. As he transitioned into cricket writing, taking up the role of cricket correspondent for The Morning Post in 1933, his witty and charming style made him a beloved figure among readers.

Over the years, Robertson-Glasgow contributed articles to prestigious publications such as The Daily Telegraph, The Observer, The Sunday Times, and Wisden. He authored numerous books, including "Cricket Prints," "More Cricket Prints," "46 Not Out" (an autobiography), "Rain Stopped Play," "The Brighter Side of Cricket," "All In The Game," and "How To Become A Test Cricketer."

Robertson-Glasgow's stories and anecdotes about the game he loved were always filled with humor and goodwill, never resorting to ill-natured remarks. His writing showcased his deep understanding and appreciation of cricket, while his vibrant personality shone through every word.

Sadly, Raymond Charles Robertson-Glasgow's life was cut short when he took his own life on March 4, aged 63. Though he had previously battled melancholic depression, his infectious laughter and eternal good humor never revealed the internal struggle he endured. His untimely departure left a void in the cricket world, as his authoritative, skillful, and joyous approach to cricket writing was sorely missed by his colleagues and fans alike.

In memory of Raymond Charles Robertson-Glasgow, his contributions to the game of cricket and the world of sports writing will forever be remembered with admiration and fondness.

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