Matthew Edward Hobden was an exceptionally talented cricket player from England, whose life was tragically cut short at the young age of 22. Born in Eastbourne, Hobden showed immense potential from a very young age and was regarded as a promising prospect in the world of cricket.
Educated at Millfield School, Eastbourne College, and Cardiff Met University, Hobden possessed a strong academic background alongside his sporting abilities. His passion for the game found its true calling when he stepped onto the cricket field and showcased his remarkable skills as both a right-handed batsman and a right-arm fast-medium bowler.
Hobden’s first taste of first-class cricket came in 2012 when he made his debut for Cardiff MCCU against Somerset at the Taunton Vale Sports Club Ground. Despite being a newcomer, he displayed great determination and skill, catching the attention of cricket enthusiasts with his impressive performance. This led to his second first-class appearance that season against Warwickshire at Edgbaston, where Hobden secured a remarkable figure of 5 for 62 in Warwickshire’s first innings.
In 2014, Hobden was given the opportunity to represent Sussex, marking a significant milestone in his career. He made his debut for the county and continued to showcase his abilities as a cricketer. By the end of 2015, he had accumulated valuable experience, having played in 18 first-class matches for Sussex.
Hobden’s potential did not go unnoticed, and he was selected for the England Performance Programme in the winters of 2014/15 and 2015/16. This recognition highlighted his incredible talent and confirmed that he was on the path to achieving his dream of representing his country. England’s lead fast bowling coach, Kevin Shine, spoke highly of Hobden’s abilities, stating that his potential was immense and that he had no doubt that Hobden would have eventually played for England had his life not been tragically cut short.
On January 2, 2016, the cricketing world was stunned by the devastating news of Hobden’s sudden passing. His county, Sussex, released a statement expressing their grief and acknowledging the immense talent that he possessed. The England team, in a display of respect and tribute to Hobden, wore black armbands during the second day of the second test against South Africa.
Hobden’s life was tragically taken away, leaving a void in the cricketing world, but his legacy lives on. His potential, extraordinary skills, and dedication to the sport will always be remembered and cherished. In his short time on the field, he demonstrated his ability to overcome challenges and excel in the sport he loved.
Although his time with us was cut short, Matthew Edward Hobden will forever be remembered as an exceptional cricket player, a source of inspiration for budding cricketers, and a shining example of the immense talent that England has produced on the cricket field. His name will be etched in the cricketing history of England as one of the game’s most promising stars.
