Written by: Victor Malone

Brian Johnston: The Voice of Cricket

Brian Johnston, affectionately known as "Johnners," was a British cricket commentator, author, and television presenter who is most prominently associated with the BBC. His career spanned from 1946 until his death in 1994, and he is widely regarded as one of the most iconic and beloved cricket commentators of all time.

Early Life and Education

Born on June 24, 1912, at the Old Rectory, Little Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, Johnston was the youngest of four children. His paternal grandfather, Reginald Eden Johnston, had been Governor of the Bank of England between 1909 and 1911, and his first cousin was Frederick Boy Browning, an airborne division commander during World War II.

Johnston's father, Lieutenant-Colonel Charles Evelyn Johnston, DSO, MC, managed the family coffee business, but tragically drowned at Widemouth Sands near Bude, Cornwall, in 1922. His mother remarried Captain Marcus Scully, but the marriage ended in divorce, and she reverted to her original married name.

Johnston was educated at Temple Grove Preparatory School and Eton, where he played cricket for the school's 2nd XI. He subsequently attended New College, Oxford, graduating with a third in History in 1934. During his time at Oxford, Johnston was a keen cricketer, keeping wicket for his college team, Oxford Authentics, and also for the Eton Ramblers and I Zingari.

Early Career and Cricket Commentary

After graduating from Oxford, Johnston joined the family coffee business, where he worked until 1939. However, he admitted years later that he had little interest or liking for the work. During this time, he was transferred to the Hamburg office in 1935 and later to Santos, Brazil, where he worked in the company office for 18 months.

It was during World War II that Johnston's love for cricket led him to join the BBC as a cricket commentator. His warm, witty, and engaging style quickly made him a household name, and he went on to commentate on numerous cricket matches, including Test matches, County Championship games, and international tournaments.

Television Presentation and Writing

In addition to his commentary work, Johnston also presented several popular television programs, including the BBC's "It's a Knockout" and "Test Match Special." He was a prolific writer, publishing several books on cricket, including "The Cricket Match" and "Rain Stops Play."

Johnston's writing style was characterized by his humor, wit, and ability to bring the game to life through his words. His books are still widely read and cherished by cricket enthusiasts today.

Personal Life and Legacy

Johnston was married to Pauline Lyon Worthington, and the couple had two sons, Barry and Charles. He was known for his love of humor, good food, and fine wine, and was a popular figure in cricketing circles.

Brian Johnston's legacy extends far beyond his commentary and writing. He is widely regarded as one of the most iconic and beloved figures in cricket, and his contributions to the game have been immense. He was awarded the MBE in 1983 for his services to cricket, and his legacy continues to inspire and entertain cricket enthusiasts around the world.

Quotes and Memorable Sayings

• "Rain stops play, and so do I."
• "The crowd is on its feet, and so am I."
• "He's got a leg before, and so have I, but that's a different story."

These quotes and many more have become ingrained in cricketing folklore, and continue to delight and entertain audiences to this day.