Julius Caesar, the renowned cricketer from England, was born on March 25, 1830, in the charming town of Godalming in Surrey. He was the seventh and youngest child of Benjamin and Ann Caesar, who instilled in him a love for the game of cricket from a young age. Growing up in a household where cricket was a way of life, it was no surprise that Julius developed into a talented player.
Caesar’s first association with cricket began in Godalming, where he spent an impressive 24 years deeply involved with the sport. He played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Broadwater Cricket Club and became one of its founding members. Caesar’s skills and dedication to the game stood out, quickly earning him recognition and respect within the cricketing community.
In his later years, Julius Caesar found employment at Charterhouse School, where he served as both a cricket coach and groundsman. This role allowed him to further nurture his passion for the sport while passing his knowledge and experience onto the next generation of cricketers. Caesar’s expertise and guidance played a fundamental role in shaping the cricketing talents of numerous individuals.
Despite the considerable success and achievements he experienced throughout his career, Julius Caesar’s life was marked by a series of tragic incidents. These unfortunate occurrences left him in a state of poverty towards the end of his days. In 1878, Caesar passed away in his lodgings on Mill Lane, leaving behind a legacy that would forever be remembered by cricket enthusiasts.
Among Caesar’s notable accomplishments was his inclusion in the first team from the British Isles to embark on an overseas tour. He was a member of George Parr’s team that journeyed to North America in 1859-60. The tour proved to be a resounding success, with each player earning approximately £90. Caesar’s talent and skill with the bat also saw him being selected as a member of Parr’s team that toured Australia and New Zealand in 1863-64. This particular tour was a triumph, with the team emerging victoriously in every match and each player taking home around £250 after expenses.
In recognition of his contributions to the world of cricket, a Testimonial Match was organized for Caesar’s benefit on September 12-14, 1864. On the final evening of the event, a grand celebration took place at the public hall in Godalming, where Caesar was presented with an English gold lever watch and chain, along with a purse of sovereigns. Another benefit match was organized on August 17-19, 1868, demonstrating the profound impact Caesar had made on the cricketing community.
Julius Caesar’s cricketing prowess was widely acknowledged, particularly for his remarkable batting skills as a fine free hitter. He excelled in hitting forward and to leg, producing excellent scores for his county, especially around 1861. Additionally, Caesar possessed exceptional fielding abilities and was known for his agility in taking catches, often occupying the pivotal point position. Moreover, he was a proficient long-stop and had the ability to bowl fast round-armed, although he was seldom given the opportunity to showcase his bowling skills.
Contrary to popular belief, Julius Caesar’s name was not a fiction or a pseudonym but his actual birth name. Alongside cricket, Caesar worked as a carpenter and joiner, following his trade in his beloved hometown of Godalming.
Julius Caesar’s impact on cricket extends far beyond his statistics and achievements. His love for the game, talent, and dedication have left an indelible mark on the sport and continue to inspire cricketers to this day.
