Michael James Stewart, commonly known as Micky Stewart, is a former English cricketer who made significant contributions to the sport both as a player and as a manager. Born on September 16, 1932, in England, Stewart had a remarkable career and left an indelible mark on the world of cricket.
Stewart’s journey in cricket began during his time in school, where he shone as a talented opening batsman and a specialist short-leg fielder. His exceptional performances caught the attention of many, including Kent, who offered him a contract. However, it was Surrey who ultimately signed him, marking the start of a successful professional career.
In 1954, Stewart made his debut for Surrey and instantly showcased his skills by scoring an impressive 109 against the Pakistan team in his second match. From there, he quickly became an integral part of the dominant Surrey side, which clinched a record-breaking seven consecutive Championships. Stewart’s batting technique was solid, but it was his exceptional fielding that truly set him apart.
During the 1957 season, Stewart finished with an astonishing 77 catches, falling just one short of the legendary Walter Hammond’s record. Furthermore, he achieved the remarkable feat of taking seven catches in an innings during a match against Northampton, thereby establishing a world record. His fielding prowess was second to none, and it made him an invaluable asset to any team he played for.
Stewart made his debut for the England national team in 1962, at the age of almost 30, against Pakistan. He went on to represent England in eight Test matches and served as the vice-captain during the 1963-64 tour of India. Unfortunately, an illness forced him to return home prematurely, and he was never able to secure a permanent place in the national side.
While his international career may have been cut short, Stewart continued to excel at the county level. From 1963 until his retirement in 1972, he captained Surrey, leading them to a Championship victory in 1971. His exceptional leadership skills and understanding of the game made him a respected figure in English cricket.
In 1979, Stewart returned to The Oval, this time as the manager of the Surrey team. During this period, he oversaw the early years of his son Alec Stewart’s career, guiding him towards becoming one of England’s finest cricketers. In 1986, Micky Stewart was appointed as the manager of the England national team during their tour of Australia. His responsibilities included supervising discipline, fitness, and technical aspects of the team’s performance. Despite some mixed results, he carried out his duties diligently until 1992.
Even after leaving his managerial role, Stewart continued to contribute to the world of cricket. He accepted the position of director of coaching and excellence at the ECB, where he remained until his retirement in 1997. Throughout his career, Stewart’s dedication, efficiency, and attention to detail made a lasting impact on English cricket.
Aside from his contributions to cricket, Stewart was also a talented footballer. He played as an inside-left for Charlton Athletic, Wimbledon, and Corinthian-Casuals. Despite excelling in multiple sports, Stewart’s true passion lay in cricket, where his exceptional abilities and accomplishments continue to inspire generations of players.
Michael James Stewart, known as Micky Stewart, is a revered figure in English cricket. From his dazzling performances as a player to his meticulous management of teams, Stewart’s impact on the sport is undeniable. His exceptional fielding skills, solid batting technique, and unwavering dedication continue to be celebrated in the cricketing world, cementing his legacy as one of England’s finest cricketers.
