Herbert Strudwick, English cricketer and coach (d. 1970)

Herbert Strudwick, born on 28 January 1880 and passing on 14 February 1970, was an iconic English wicket-keeper whose career spanned from 1899 to 1927, primarily representing Surrey County Cricket Club. Renowned for his exceptional glovework behind the stumps, Strudwick established himself as one of the most prolific wicket-keepers in the annals of first-class cricket history, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

During his distinguished career, Strudwick amassed an extraordinary record of 1,493 dismissals in first-class cricket. This remarkable tally includes both catches taken and stumpings effected, showcasing his agility, precision, and consistency behind the wicket. At the time of his retirement and for many decades thereafter, this figure stood as the third-highest number of dismissals achieved by any wicket-keeper in the entire history of first-class cricket globally. This incredible feat places him among the elite, surpassed only by legends such as Les Ames (1,770 dismissals for Kent) and George Duckworth (1,510 dismissals for Lancashire), underscoring his enduring legacy as a true master of his craft.

While Herbert Strudwick was primarily celebrated for his unparalleled skills with the gloves, he was not typically regarded as a specialist batsman. Despite this, he demonstrated a surprising ability to contribute with the bat, particularly in crucial lower-order partnerships. Most notably, he twice featured in century stands for the last wicket (the tenth wicket) alongside his Surrey teammate, the formidable fast bowler Bill Hitch. These significant partnerships, where the final pair adds over 100 runs, are exceptionally rare in first-class cricket. Strudwick and Hitch's unique achievement places them among only four pairs in the entire history of the sport to have recorded more than one tenth-wicket century stand, highlighting their combined tenacity and unexpected batting prowess in critical situations.

Strudwick's career with Surrey was marked by consistent excellence and dedication, making him a cornerstone of the team for nearly three decades. His contributions extended beyond mere statistics; his presence behind the stumps provided confidence to the bowlers and was crucial to Surrey's success during his era.

Frequently Asked Questions about Herbert Strudwick

Who was Herbert Strudwick?

Herbert Strudwick was a highly distinguished English wicket-keeper who played first-class cricket from 1899 to 1927, primarily for Surrey County Cricket Club. He is widely recognized for his exceptional record of dismissals.

What was Herbert Strudwick's major record in cricket?

Herbert Strudwick's most notable record is his 1,493 dismissals (catches and stumpings combined) in first-class cricket. This tally stands as the third-highest by any wicket-keeper in the history of the sport at that level.

Who are the wicket-keepers with more first-class dismissals than Strudwick?

In first-class cricket, Herbert Strudwick's 1,493 dismissals are surpassed only by Les Ames (1,770) and George Duckworth (1,510), solidifying his position among the top three all-time.

What was significant about Herbert Strudwick's batting?

Although not primarily known for his batting, Herbert Strudwick remarkably featured in two separate century partnerships for the last wicket (the tenth wicket) with his teammate Bill Hitch. This is a rare achievement, as only four pairs in first-class cricket history have managed more than one tenth-wicket century stand.

Which team did Herbert Strudwick play for?

Herbert Strudwick played the majority of his first-class career for Surrey County Cricket Club in England.