England

Wally Hammond

Born: June 19, 1903, Buckland, Dover, Kent

Wally Hammond bio

Walter Reginald Hammond, affectionately known as Wally Hammond, was an English cricket player considered one of the greatest batsmen in the history of the game. Born on June 19, 1903, in Dover, Kent, he possessed incredible talent and athleticism that set him apart from his peers.

Hammond’s exceptional skills and undeniable talent made him a force to be reckoned with. Standing out from an early age, he had an ease of movement and grace that hinted at his immense potential as a cricketer. These qualities, combined with his physical prowess and powerful forearms, made him a formidable opponent on the field.

Throughout his career, Hammond achieved remarkable statistics that showcased his true quality. Between 1920 and 1951, he amassed 50,493 runs, including 167 centuries, at an impressive average of 56.10. In Test matches, he scored 7,249 runs, with 22 centuries, at an average of 58.45. As a bowler, he claimed 732 wickets at an average of 30.58, and he held an astonishing 820 catches. These figures speak volumes about his all-around ability and impact on the game.

Hammond’s natural talent was apparent from the start, as he was rarely coached during his early cricketing years. He had a sound defensive technique and was a front-foot player who later developed his game to operate more effectively from the back. His greatest strength was his exceptional driving, which was clean, effortless, and often achieved remarkable velocity.

As a young batsman, Hammond was known for his fearless strokeplay, often taking risks against some of the world’s best bowlers. However, as he matured, he became a more thoughtful player, meticulously planning his innings and refining his shot selection. His determination and dedication became evident during the 1928-29 Ashes series in Australia, where he meticulously scored runs within the V between extra cover and midwicket. This strategy proved to be highly successful, as he set a new record aggregate of 905 runs with an astounding average of 113.12 for the series.

Not only a superb batsman, Hammond was also a highly capable fast-medium bowler. Although often preoccupied with his batting, when motivated, he could produce devastating spells of fast bowling that rattled opposition batsmen. His slip fielding was impeccable, displaying his ability to move effortlessly and pluck catches out of thin air.

Hammond’s reputation extended beyond his finest cricketing years. In 1938, he became an amateur cricketer and had the honor of captaining both England and the Gentlemen and Players team. Even at the age of 43, he proved his exceptional skill and commitment by ending the 1946 season as the leading run-scorer in first-class matches, averaging a staggering 84.90.

After a challenging tour of Australia in 1946-47, Hammond announced his retirement, though he was persuaded to make brief appearances in domestic cricket in 1950 and 1951. Regrettably, his retirement was not a happy one, as he faced financial difficulties and personal struggles. Eventually, he retired to South Africa, where he passed away in 1965.

Wally Hammond’s impact on the game of cricket was immeasurable. His remarkable achievements and skills earned him a place among the cricketing immortals. As one of England’s most talented and influential cricketers, his legacy continues to inspire future generations of players in England and around the world.

Wally Hammond career stats

Batting stats

Batting Matches Innings Nos Runs High score Ave BF SR 100s 50s 4s 6s Ct St
Tests 85 140 16 7249 336* 58.45 - - 22 24 - 27 110 0
T20Is - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
ODIs - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
FC 634 1005 104 50551 336* 56.1 - - 167 185 - - 820 3
List A - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
T20s - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Bowling stats

Bowling Matches Innings Balls Runs Wkts BBI BBM Ave Econ SR 4w 5w 10w
Tests 85 110 7969 3138 83 5/36 7/87 37.8 2.36 96 1 2 0
T20Is - - - - - - - - - - - - -
ODIs - - - - - - - - - - - - -
FC 634 - 51579 22389 732 9/23 - 30.58 2.6 70.4 - 22 3
List A - - - - - - - - - - - - -
T20s - - - - - - - - - - - - -

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