Henry Hamilton van Straubenzee, a talented cricketer and respected military officer, captivated audiences with his charismatic playing style on the cricket pitch and demonstrated remarkable leadership off the field. Born in England, van Straubenzee made significant contributions to the sport, leaving a lasting impact on the cricketing community.
Lt-Colonel Henry Hamilton van Straubenzee, DSO, OBE, showcased his cricketing talents during a brief but memorable career. He played three first-class games for the Army just before the outbreak of World War II, in addition to a Championship match for Essex against Sussex at Colchester in 1938. In that particular match, Essex declared with an impressive score of 535 for six, with van Straubenzee contributing an unbeaten four runs. He also had the opportunity to showcase his left-arm spinners, albeit not claiming any wickets. Nevertheless, his passion for the game burned bright, and he cherished the memories of dismissing illustrious players such as Paul Gibb, Norman Yardley, and the Mann brothers.
Van Straubenzee’s stint in first-class cricket yielded ten wickets at an average of 18.50. His career-best performance came against Cambridge in 1939, where he took four wickets for 96 runs. Not only did he excel with the ball, but he also showcased his prowess with the bat by scoring a career-high 38 runs in the same match. Van Straubenzee ended his cricketing career with an impressive aggregate of 56 runs at an average of 28.00.
Upon retiring from the Army, van Straubenzee took on new challenges and responsibilities. He joined the board of renowned British retailer WH Smith and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the company’s managing director in 1968. His business acumen and leadership skills allowed him to navigate the company through challenging times, solidifying his reputation as an exceptional corporate leader.
Outside the cricketing and corporate spheres, van Straubenzee was renowned for his expertise in fly fishing. His passion for the sport led him to become a noted authority in the field, and his insights and techniques were cherished by anglers across the country. Van Straubenzee’s dedication to his hobbies and interests truly exemplified his diverse range of talents and pursuits.
Interestingly, van Straubenzee’s ancestry held a historic connection to Sir William Turner’s Almshouses at Kirkleatham in Cleveland. His lineage can be traced back to Jane Turner, who eloped with a Dutch officer named van Straubenzee in the early 1700s. This connection to an esteemed historical institution added another layer to his illustrious background and heritage.
On April 12, 2002, at the age of 88, Lt-Colonel Henry Hamilton van Straubenzee passed away, leaving behind a legacy of excellence both in the world of cricket and in his varied professional endeavors. His contributions to the sport and commitment to serving his country as a military officer will forever be remembered, ensuring his place among the esteemed personalities of cricketing history.
