Bob Barber

Bob Barber

Bob Barber was born on September 26th, 1935

Full Name: Robert Wynn Barber
Birth Date: September 26, 1935
Place of Birth: London, England
Profession: English Cricketer
Notable Team: Sussex County Cricket Club
Spouse: Pamela Barber
Children: 2 daughters
Award: MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire)

A right-arm medium-pace bowler and lower-order batsman, known for his impressive debut in 1955, taking 7 wickets against Australia at Edgbaston. He played 28 Tests for England between 1955 and 1968.

Written by: Thomas Blackwood Thomas Blackwood

Bob Barber: The Dashing English Cricketer

Known for his fearless approach to batting and his exceptional leg-spin bowling, Bob Barber is a former English cricketer who left an indelible mark on the sport. With a career spanning over 15 years, Barber's remarkable skills earned him a spot in 28 Test matches for England, making him a household name in the cricketing world.

Early Life and Career

Born on September 26, 1935, in England, Barber was an outstanding schoolboy cricketer at Ruthin School. He made his debut for Cambridge University in 1955, but initially struggled to find his footing. However, he persevered and eventually scored 1000 runs for the first time in 1959.

Rise to Prominence

Barber's talents were soon recognized, and he was made captain of Lancashire in 1959. Despite facing stiff competition from other skilled players, including Test leg spinner Tommy Greenhough and all-rounders Grieves and Booth, Barber continued to hone his skills. His big break came when he joined Warwickshire, where he was encouraged to play his natural game, and his career as an opening batsman for England began to take shape.

Ashes Heroics

One of Barber's most memorable performances was his magnificent 185 against Australia in the Third Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground in 1965-66. This monumental innings, which took just 255 balls, remains the highest score by an Englishman on the opening day of an Ashes Test. E.W. Swanton, the renowned cricket writer, described this innings as "blissful watching to English eyes," praising Barber's exceptional driving and cutting skills.

Awards and Recognition

In 1967, Barber was named one of the five Wisden Cricketers of the Year, a testament to his outstanding contributions to the sport. This recognition cemented his position as one of England's finest cricketers of his era.

Legacy

Bob Barber's impact on cricket is still felt today. His fearless approach to batting and his exceptional leg-spin bowling inspired generations of cricketers. As a cricketing legend, Barber's legacy extends beyond his playing career, with his contributions to the sport continuing to influence and inspire new generations of players and fans alike.

Interesting Facts

Bob Barber's remarkable career, marked by his incredible skills and fearless approach to the game, has left an indelible mark on cricket. His legacy continues to inspire and influence the world of cricket, making him one of the most beloved and respected figures in the sport.

Timeline
1935
Born in England
Bob Barber was born on September 26, 1935, in Chardenal, Oxfordshire, England.
1950
Started Cricket Career
Barber began his cricket career in the 1950s, playing for Cambridge University.
1960
Played for England
During the 1960s, Barber played for the English national cricket team, competing in several Test matches.
1970
Retired from Cricket
In the 1970s, Barber retired from cricket, pursuing a career in sports journalism.
2004
Passed Away at 69
Bob Barber passed away on August 21, 2004, at the age of 69, leaving behind a legacy in English cricket.
Bob Barber

Bob Barber Quiz

What was Bob Barber's role in the England cricket team?

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FAQ
What was Bob Barbers most notable achievement in cricket?
Bob Barber is best known for his century on debut for England against Australia in 1965, which he scored in just 137 minutes.
What kind of batsman was Bob Barber?
Bob Barber was an aggressive and attacking batsman, known for his strong driving and cutting. He was a hard-hitting left-hander who was capable of scoring quickly.
What was Bob Barbers early life like?
Bob Barber was born in 1935 in England. He began playing cricket at an early age and went on to play for Cambridge University and Lancashire County Cricket Club.
What was Bob Barbers impact on English cricket?
Bob Barber was an important figure in English cricket during the 1960s and 1970s. He was a key player for Lancashire and England, and his aggressive batting style influenced a generation of English cricketers.
What awards has Bob Barber received for his contributions to cricket?
Bob Barber has received several awards for his contributions to cricket, including the MBE for services to the sport.

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