Richard Baggallay, English army officer and cricketer (d. 1975)

Richard Romer Claude Baggallay (1884–1975) lived a life that seamlessly blended military distinction with a deep passion for cricket. An English army officer and a notable first-class cricketer, he left his mark on both the battlefield and the cricket pitch, particularly for Derbyshire County Cricket Club, which he had the honour of captaining for three seasons between 1913 and 1919.

Early Life and Distinguished Background

Born in Kensington on May 4, 1884, Richard Baggallay hailed from a well-established family. His father, Claude Baggallay K.C., was a highly respected barrister based at Wilderwick, East Grinstead, Sussex. The "K.C." designation, or King's Counsel, signified his father's status as a senior and distinguished lawyer, a testament to his legal prowess. Young Richard received his formative education at Marlborough College, one of England's esteemed public schools, a common pathway for individuals destined for military or public service during that era. Following his schooling, he embarked on a military career, joining the 11th Hussars, a cavalry regiment with a long and illustrious history.

Cricket Career Prior to World War I

Baggallay's foray into first-class cricket began during the 1912 season when he made his debut for Derbyshire. Although his initial appearances, including a match against the touring Australians, made little significant impression, his leadership qualities were soon recognized. He swiftly rose to captain the county side for the 1913 season, guiding Derbyshire to a 13th-place finish in the County Championship. His captaincy continued into the 1914 season, where the team improved slightly to 12th position, demonstrating his commitment to the club even as the shadow of a global conflict began to loom.

Gallant Service in the Great War

The outbreak of World War I dramatically interrupted many lives and careers, including Baggallay's. From 1914 to 1919, he served with immense distinction, joining the Irish Guards, a regiment renowned for its bravery and often at the forefront of combat. He rapidly rose through the ranks, serving successively as Captain and then Major. His service took him to some of the most brutal and strategically vital battlefields of the Western Front, including the Somme and Ypres – locations synonymous with immense sacrifice and fierce fighting. For his exceptional courage and leadership in the face of the enemy, he was formally recognized with a mention in despatches and, in 1919, was awarded both the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) and the Military Cross (MC), two prestigious awards for gallantry and leadership.

Post-War Return to Cricket and Pivotal Irish Appointment

Upon his return from the horrors of war, Baggallay resumed his cricketing career, once again taking up the captaincy of Derbyshire for the 1919 season. However, his return to the county game was brief. After just three matches that season, his military career called him away to a crucial and highly sensitive post in Ireland. He was appointed Military Secretary to the Viceroy of Ireland, Lord Ypres (Field Marshal John French), a significant political and military role amidst the escalating political and social unrest in Ireland, following the Easter Rising and the burgeoning Irish War of Independence. This vital appointment meant he could no longer commit to playing for Derbyshire, effectively bringing his first-class county cricket career to an end.

Cricket Style and Career Statistics

As a cricketer, Richard Baggallay was primarily a right-hand batsman, known for his steady presence at the crease. He also occasionally donned the gloves as an occasional wicket-keeper for the team. Throughout his first-class career with Derbyshire, he played in 31 matches, accumulating 59 innings. His highest individual score was a commendable 88 runs, and he maintained a batting average of 11.86. Although his county career concluded in 1919, he made at least one more recorded appearance in 1922, playing for the Household Cavalry against an Eton side that notably included Lord Dunglass, who would later become Prime Minister Alec Douglas-Home.

Later Military Career and Final Years

Baggallay continued his distinguished military service, eventually attaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. His commitment to national service extended into World War II, where he was appointed commandant of the Alien internment camps on the Isle of Man between 1940 and 1942. These camps housed individuals deemed enemy aliens or those suspected of disloyalty during wartime, a complex and administratively challenging role. Richard Romer Claude Baggallay passed away in Kensington on December 12, 1975, at the advanced age of 91, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of military valor, dedicated public service, and sporting endeavour.

Family and Sporting Heritage

Cricket was clearly a significant family affair for the Baggallays, showcasing a shared talent and passion for the sport. Richard was not the only member to grace the first-class pitch; his brother, Mervyn Baggallay, also played for Cambridge University. Furthermore, a cousin, Thomas Baggallay, extended the family's cricketing reach by playing for Surrey, cementing the Baggallay name within the annals of English cricket. Richard Baggallay's personal life included two marriages: first to Kathleen Constance Charlotte FitzGerald Murphy in 1910, with whom he had three children, and later to Phyllis Mildred Harriet Ford in 1922.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What were Richard Baggallay's primary professions or roles?

Richard Baggallay was primarily an English army officer who served with distinction in both World War I and World War II, and a first-class cricketer who played for and captained Derbyshire.

When and for whom did Richard Baggallay play first-class cricket?

He played first-class cricket for Derbyshire County Cricket Club between 1912 and 1919, captaining the side in 1913, 1914, and 1919.

What was Baggallay's military service like during World War I?

He served in the Irish Guards from 1914 to 1919, rising to the rank of Major. He saw service at major battles like the Somme and Ypres, was mentioned in despatches, and awarded the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) and the Military Cross (MC) in 1919 for his gallantry.

What significant role did he hold immediately after World War I?

After the war, he was appointed Military Secretary to the Viceroy of Ireland, Lord Ypres, a crucial post during a period of significant political upheaval in Ireland.

What role did Richard Baggallay play during World War II?

During World War II, as a Lieutenant Colonel, he served as the commandant of the Alien internment camps on the Isle of Man between 1940 and 1942.

Did Richard Baggallay have any family connections to cricket?

Yes, cricket was a family tradition. His brother, Mervyn Baggallay, played for Cambridge University, and his cousin, Thomas Baggallay, played for Surrey.