Births on May 2

Bob Wyatt, English cricketer (d. 1995)

Robert Elliott Storey Wyatt (2 May 1901 – 20 April 1995) was a revered figure in English cricket, whose impressive career spanned nearly thirty years from 1923 to 1951. Born into a privileged background at Milford Heath House in Surrey, Wyatt's journey through the cricketing world saw him represent not only his county sides, Warwickshire and Worcestershire, but also his country, England, on the grandest stages. His life concluded at the age of 93, making him England's oldest living Test cricketer at the time of his passing in Treliske, Truro.

Known for his determined approach at the crease and his useful medium-pace bowling, Wyatt was a true all-rounder of his era. He embarked on his first-class cricket journey in 1923, quickly establishing himself as a formidable presence. Four years later, in 1927, he made his much-anticipated Test match debut against South Africa in Johannesburg, marking the beginning of his international career.

A Captain's Burden: The Ashes and Beyond

Wyatt’s leadership potential was recognized early, though his initial stint as England captain proved challenging. In 1930, he was controversially appointed to lead England in the final Test against a formidable Australian touring team, a decision that saw him replace the incumbent Percy Chapman. The Australians of that era, featuring legends like Don Bradman, were dominant, and Wyatt's captaincy, unfortunately, could not turn the tide. Following this early setback in leadership, the captaincy baton was passed to the legendary Douglas Jardine for the subsequent few years. Despite this early setback in leadership, Wyatt's individual prowess did not go unnoticed; he was deservedly named one of the Wisden Cricketers of the Year for 1930, an honour reflecting his significant contributions to the game.

His career took a historically significant turn during the infamous 1932–1933 "Bodyline" tour of Australia. As Douglas Jardine's trusted vice-captain, Wyatt found himself at the helm of an early tour match that Jardine sat out. It was in this very match that Wyatt became the first captain to employ the controversial Bodyline tactic against the Australian batsmen, a strategic move designed to curb their scoring, particularly that of Don Bradman. This tactic, involving fast, short-pitched bowling aimed at the body, caused immense political and administrative fallout, straining Anglo-Australian relations. Following Jardine’s resignation in the wake of the Bodyline controversy, the captaincy was once again entrusted to Wyatt, a testament to his tactical understanding and the respect he commanded.

Resilience and Leadership

Throughout his career, Robert Wyatt was renowned not only for his skill but also for his extraordinary resilience, often described as possessing a "bulldog spirit" in the face of adversity, particularly concerning injuries. Perhaps the most famous incident occurred during England's tour of the West Indies in 1935. Facing fierce bowling from the West Indian speedster Manny Martindale in a match in Jamaica, Wyatt was struck in the jaw by a rapidly rising ball. He was carried unconscious from the field, suffering a jaw broken in four places. Yet, upon regaining consciousness in the dressing room, his immediate concern was not for his pain but for his team. He famously signaled for a pencil and paper and, with incredible composure, wrote that he attached no blame whatsoever to Martindale and then proceeded to amend his team's batting order for the remainder of the innings. This act of sportsmanship and dedication cemented his legend.

Wyatt played a total of 40 Test matches for England, leading the side in fifteen of them. His captaincy, though described as "soundly if without inspiration," ensured stability and disciplined play, often navigating complex cricketing landscapes of the era. He concluded his Test career against Australia at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground in 1937, leaving behind a remarkable record.

A Storied Career in Numbers and Legacy

His Test match statistics reflect a solid and dependable performer: he scored 1,839 runs at an average of 31.70 and claimed 18 wickets at an average of 35.66, showcasing his all-round capabilities. His highest innings in a Test match was a magnificent 149 runs against South Africa at Trent Bridge in 1935, a demonstration of his batting prowess.

In the wider sphere of first-class cricket, Wyatt's numbers are truly monumental. Across 739 matches, he amassed an impressive 39,405 runs at an average of 40.04. Furthermore, his handy medium-pace bowling secured him 901 wickets at an average of 32.84, underlining his immense value to any team he represented over his long and distinguished career.

Beyond the national team, Wyatt was a stalwart for Warwickshire, captaining the county from 1930 to 1937. His departure from the captaincy, replaced by Peter Cranmer, was a move he reportedly disliked, but his commitment to the club remained unwavering, and he continued to play for Warwickshire through the 1938 and 1939 seasons. His cricketing career was then interrupted by global conflict, as he served bravely in the Royal Air Force during World War II.

After the war, Wyatt embarked on a new chapter, transferring to Worcestershire. He often spoke fondly of his time there, describing his "six happy summers" with the county. His career culminated in a dramatic fashion in his penultimate match in 1951 against Somerset at Taunton. With Worcestershire needing six runs to win off the final ball of the game, Wyatt, ever the clutch player, "duly drove it high into the pavilion for victory," a fitting swansong for a cricketer of his stature.

Robert Wyatt's enduring legacy is recognized today with a stand named after him at Warwickshire's home ground, Edgbaston, a permanent tribute to his contributions to the club and the sport. Interestingly, he was also the cousin of the prominent British politician and broadcaster, Woodrow Wyatt, adding another layer to his fascinating personal story.

Frequently Asked Questions about R.E.S. Wyatt

What was Robert Elliott Storey Wyatt primarily known for in cricket?

Robert Wyatt was known for his determined batting, handy medium-pace bowling, and his resilient "bulldog spirit" in the face of injuries. He also held the England captaincy in two distinct periods, notably during the controversial Bodyline era.

What was his involvement in the Bodyline series?

As vice-captain to Douglas Jardine on the 1932–1933 tour of Australia, Robert Wyatt became the first captain to implement the Bodyline tactic in an early tour match when Jardine was absent. He later resumed the England captaincy after Jardine's resignation following the controversy.

What was the most famous injury Robert Wyatt sustained?

His most famous injury occurred in 1935 in Jamaica when a ball bowled by Manny Martindale broke his jaw in four places. Despite being carried off unconscious, he famously wrote down team instructions and absolved Martindale of blame upon regaining consciousness.

Which county teams did Robert Wyatt play for?

He played for Warwickshire for the majority of his career, including a period as captain, and later transferred to Worcestershire after World War II, where he spent six successful seasons.

How many Test matches did Robert Wyatt captain for England?

Robert Wyatt captained England in 15 out of his 40 Test matches, leading the side with a "sound if without inspiration" approach.

What were his career statistics?

In Tests, he scored 1,839 runs at an average of 31.70 and took 18 wickets. In his extensive first-class career, he played 739 matches, scoring 39,405 runs at an average of 40.04 and taking 901 wickets.

How is Robert Wyatt's legacy commemorated?

A stand is named after him at Edgbaston, Warwickshire's home ground, acknowledging his significant contributions to the club and English cricket. He was also England's oldest living Test cricketer at the time of his death.