Charles Duncan Fearnley, commonly known as Duncan Fearnley, was a prominent left-hand opening batsman from England. Although he may not have achieved widespread recognition on the national stage, Fearnley was a valuable asset to Worcestershire, particularly during their maiden Championship-winning season in 1964. Over the course of his career, Fearnley amassed 97 appearances for the county, and while his average hovered around 20, his contributions to the team were significant.
Fearnley’s journey in cricket began with trials for Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire, before ultimately finding his home with Worcestershire. Prior to his professional career, he honed his skills playing for Farsley in the Bradford League, which provided him with invaluable experience and the necessary foundation for his future endeavors.
After leaving New Road at the end of 1968, Fearnley continued pursuing his passion for cricket. He went on to represent Lincolnshire while also exploring new ventures. In 1972, Fearnley returned to Worcestershire, this time as the captain of the 2nd XI. This experience allowed him to contribute in a different capacity and serve as a mentor for upcoming talents within the county.
In addition to his contributions on the field, Fearnley established a highly successful bat-manufacturing company with his own name. Crafting exceptional cricket bats, Fearnley’s brand quickly gained recognition and became popular among players of all levels. His expertise and commitment to providing high-quality equipment made him a trusted name in the cricket world.
Fearnley’s dedication to the sport extended beyond the field and his manufacturing business. In 1986, he assumed the role of chairman for Worcestershire, further solidifying his influence and commitment to the county. Under his leadership, Worcestershire experienced tremendous success, attracting renowned players such as Ian Botham. During Fearnley’s 12-year tenure as chairman, Worcestershire won two Championships, two Sunday League titles, one B&H Cup, and one NatWest Trophy. Moreover, his visionary leadership saw a substantial increase in the club’s membership, making it an even more prominent and prosperous cricketing institution.
Although statistics may not always tell the complete story, they provide a glimpse into Fearnley’s impact and contributions to the sport. His legacy as a batsman, manufacturer, and chairman remains an integral part of Worcestershire cricket history. Fearnley’s commitment, passion, and astute business acumen have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the game, and his name continues to be associated with excellence and success in the world of cricket.
