Alan Ward, the England cricket player, was a fast bowler whose career started with great promise but unfortunately ended in disappointment and injury. Despite his genuine pace, Ward’s awkward action and fragile physique often proved to be his downfall, and the fact that he played the majority of his matches on Derbyshire’s batting-friendly pitches did not help his cause.
In 1970-71, when England embarked on their tour to Australia, captain Ray Illingworth was enthusiastic about the opening attack of Ward and John Snow. However, while Snow thrived under the spotlight and claimed 31 wickets to secure the series win, Ward struggled to handle the pressure and his tour was eventually ruined by injury.
Notably, Ward became the subject of negative headlines in 1973 when he was sent off the field by his captain for refusing to bowl in a Sunday League game. This incident further tarnished his reputation, and in 1976, he left Derbyshire under a cloud of controversy.
Despite the setbacks, 1976 also marked Ward’s fifth and final Test appearance. He was selected to add some fire to the England side facing the dominant West Indies. In this game, he showcased his skill by taking four wickets and remarkably received a standing ovation for a last-day duck. His defiant batting held the West Indies at bay for almost an hour, displaying his determination and resolve on the field.
Following his departure from Derbyshire, Ward joined Leicestershire in 1976. However, his two seasons with the county proved to be largely unproductive, and he failed to make a significant impact. Unfortunately, his career never regained its former glory, and he eventually faded from the professional cricket scene.
Looking at his statistics, it is evident that Ward had immense raw talent as a fast bowler. However, his journey was marred by injuries, inconsistencies, and off-field controversies, preventing him from achieving his full potential.
Despite the setbacks, Alan Ward’s contributions to the game should not be overlooked. He made valuable contributions during his brief international career, displaying his ability to trouble batsmen with his pace and gaining respect from the cricketing community for his determination on difficult occasions.
While his career may not have lived up to the initial promise, Ward’s story serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by professional athletes. His journey teaches us about the importance of perseverance and resilience, even in the face of adversity. Although he may not have reached the peak of success, Alan Ward’s name will always be remembered in cricketing history as someone who possessed great potential and made important contributions to the sport.
