Jonathan Payn Fellows-Smith, commonly known as Pom Pom Fellows-Smith, was a prominent cricket player hailing from South Africa. Born on March 12, 1934, in Cape Town, he established himself as a significant figure in the cricketing world during the 1960s.
Fellows-Smith was a force to be reckoned with, known for his powerful and uncompromising style of play. He was a formidable right-hand batsman, with his trademark shots being a hammered off-drive and a range of leg-side swipes. His aggressive batting approach always kept the opposition on their toes, as he effortlessly dominated the crease.
Furthermore, Pom Pom was familiar with English conditions due to his time at Oxford, where he won three cricket Blues. His exceptional skills on the field were not limited to cricket alone but extended to rugby as well, where he also earned a cricket Blue. This versatility showcased his athletic prowess and his ability to excel in multiple sports.
In addition to his tenure at Oxford, Pom Pom Fellows-Smith played for Northamptonshire from 1957. He made a blazing debut for the county, scoring an impressive 109 runs, followed by an unbeaten 65 in his first two outings. This remarkable start to his professional career set the stage for a promising future in the cricketing world.
Fellows-Smith’s excellence as an all-rounder was undeniable. Despite a somewhat underwhelming performance during his 1960 tour of England, where he played four Test matches, he managed to accumulate 863 runs at an average of 31.96. Moreover, his legspin bowling contributed significantly to his overall impact on the game, claiming 32 wickets during the tour.
However, after his tour of England, Pom Pom’s first-class career took an unexpected turn. He only played two more matches at this level, both for Free Foresters against his alma mater. These appearances marked the end of his professional cricketing journey, leaving behind a brief but impactful legacy.
It is worth noting that out of Fellows-Smith’s 94 first-class matches, a mere 14 were played in his home country of South Africa. Despite this, his achievements on the international stage and in English county cricket demonstrated his exceptional talents and his ability to adapt to different playing conditions.
Today, Pom Pom Fellows-Smith’s contributions to the sport continue to be respected and appreciated. While his career may have been relatively short-lived, he will always be remembered for his powerful hitting and his ability to entertain spectators with his unorthodox shots. His legacy serves as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers, showcasing the importance of talent, versatility, and a fearless approach to the game.
Jonathan Payn Fellows-Smith, known as Pom Pom Fellows-Smith, left an indelible mark on the cricketing world. His powerful batting style and remarkable performances resonate with cricket enthusiasts to this day. Despite a short-lived professional career, his contributions and versatility on and off the field will forever be remembered.
