John Andrew Simpson, widely known as John Simpson, is an accomplished cricket player hailing from England. He has made a name for himself as a reliable wicketkeeper and a valuable contributor with the bat. Simpson has been a key member of the Middlesex cricket team for nearly a decade, fending off tough competition to secure his position as the team’s first-choice wicketkeeper.
Throughout his career, Simpson has garnered a dedicated following, with Middlesex supporters even proposing him for England Test honors. However, despite his talent and potential, his first-class average hovering in the early 30s has hindered his progression into the international arena.
Nonetheless, Simpson’s dreams of playing for England became a reality in July 2021. Due to a Covid outbreak that resulted in the isolation of the first-choice squad, Simpson was called up as part of a makeshift ODI side to face Pakistan. Remarkably, he played in all three games, displaying exceptional skills with the gloves by claiming nine catches in a 3-0 clean sweep. Particularly noteworthy was his performance at Lord’s, his home ground, where he secured five catches in a single innings.
Before his international breakthrough, Simpson achieved a career highlight during the 2016 season. In a tense Middlesex run chase, he scored an unbeaten 79 runs from 80 balls against Somerset at Taunton. This dramatic innings, topped off with two legside sixes, played a crucial role in inspiring Middlesex to their first County Championship title in 23 years. Another standout moment came in May of the same year when he scored a fluent century against Hampshire, marking his fifth first-class hundred.
Simpson’s passion for cricket took root at a young age, initially playing Lancashire League cricket for Haslingden from the tender age of ten. He continued to represent Lancashire in various age categories, progressing from Under-11 upwards. Despite displaying promise, it was a move to Middlesex that allowed him to fulfill his ambition of becoming a professional cricketer. Initially offered a short contract at Lord’s, Simpson truly came into his own during the 2011 season. With an impressive tally of 869 runs at an average of 43.45 and an impressive 65 dismissals behind the stumps, he played a pivotal role in Middlesex’s promotion campaign.
While achieving success in Division One proved more challenging, Simpson’s adept wicketkeeping skills consistently earned praise. In 2014, he enjoyed the satisfaction of scoring two Championship hundreds, solidifying his place in the Middlesex side.
John Simpson’s cricketing journey highlights his unwavering commitment, perseverance, and undeniable skill. As an established wicketkeeper-batsman, he continues to make significant contributions to Middlesex and remains a hopeful contender for future England Test honors.
