John Edrich of England has died at the age of 83; the former Surrey batsman is one of only 25 men to score 100 centuries in the first round, including 12 for England in a 13-year international career and the highest score of 310no against New Zealand
Last Updated: 25/12/20 11:06 am
John Edrich scored 5,138 runs in 77 Test matches for England between 1963 and 1976
John Edrich, a well-known Englishman, has died at the age of 83.
Edrich played 77 test matches during a 13-year international career between 1963 and 1976, getting 5,138 runs at 43.54 by 12 centuries.
The left-back became just the eighth player in the game’s history to score a three-pointer when he made 310 unbeaten against New Zealand at Headingley in 1965, innings that -enter 52 four and five six. He was also the first to finish in international cricket one day.
Edrich is one of only 25 men to have won 100 first-class centuries – he made 103 in total – as he served Surrey with distinction between 1958 and 1978.
His first trial against the West Indies ended in June 1963 and his international career, in which he also played seven ODIs, ended against the same challenge in July 1976.
Edrich was diagnosed with the rare, and incurable, form of leukemia, known as Waldenstrom’s in 2000.
“I haven’t seen a doctor for about 10 years,” Edrich said. “But I had been feeling tired for a while. After doing blood tests, they found leukemia. It was a big surprise. You can’t fight. You have to have faith in your counselor and the handling. “
Sir Ian Botham was among the first to pay homage to him after Edrich’s passing.
Very sad news today to wake up on Christmas Day and be told that John Edrich is dead !! Amazing guy I was lucky enough to spend a good time with … RIP
– Ian Botham (@BeefyBotham) 25 December 2020
Tom Harrison, ECB chief executive, said: “With John passing, we have lost a huge number of fearless bats – one of the few who have chosen more than 5,000 runs for England.
“His duels with some of the world’s best fast bowlers were legendary, and it’s a testament to his ability that his 310 outs against New Zealand in 1965 are not yet the fifth-highest test score. He will be greatly missed, and his thoughts will be with his family and friends. “
Mark Butcher, who was a bat in England and Surrey, said; “Trial three-centurion legend and @surreycricket legend. #RIP”.