A right-handed batsman and right-arm medium-pace bowler who played 9 Tests for England from 1956 to 1962, known for his aggressive style and strong fielding.
Doug Insole was a renowned English cricketer who made a lasting impact on the sport, both on and off the field. He is best known for his exceptional skills as a wicketkeeper, batsman, and bowler, as well as his prominent role in cricket administration.
Born on April 18, 1926, in Clapton, London, Insole attended the Monoux School in Walthamstow and later studied history at St Catharine's College, Cambridge. It was during his university days that he began to make a name for himself in the cricket world, captaining the Cambridge University cricket team.
Insole went on to captain Essex County Cricket Club for many years, scoring an impressive 20,113 first-class runs, which remains the ninth highest aggregate for the club. His remarkable skills earned him a spot in the England national team, where he played in nine Test matches, including five on the 1956-1957 tour of South Africa, where he served as vice-captain to Peter May.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to cricket, Insole was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1979. He was also named one of the Wisden Cricketers of the Year in 1956, a prestigious honor that recognizes exceptional cricketing talent.
After retiring from playing, Insole turned his attention to cricket administration, serving as chairman of the England selectors and later as President of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) from 2006 to 2007. However, his tenure was not without controversy. In 1968, he was criticized for his role in the non-selection of Basil D'Oliveira for a tour to South Africa, which was later revealed to be due to pressure from the apartheid regime.
Insole also faced criticism for dropping Geoffrey Boycott from the England team in 1967, a decision that Boycott would later describe as still causing him "aggrieved" feelings over 40 years later.
Despite the controversies, Insole's impact on English cricket cannot be overstated. He played a crucial role in shaping the sport, both on and off the field. His dedication to cricket administration helped to promote the game and develop new talent.
Insole's legacy extends beyond his own playing career, inspiring generations of cricketers to follow in his footsteps. He remains a revered figure in the cricket world, and his contributions to the sport continue to be celebrated to this day.
Insole lived most of his adult life in Chingford, where he maintained a strong connection with his local community. He passed away on August 5, 2017, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of cricket.
Born in 1916
A highly skilled batsman and captain of the English cricket team, known for his exceptional technique and leadership during the post-war era.
Born in 1918
A charismatic English cricketer and sportscaster, renowned for his exceptional batting skills and entertaining broadcasting style, which captivated audiences on and off the field.
Born in 1900
English first-class cricketer who played for Kent and Oxford University, known for his impressive bowling skills and taking 104 wickets in a single season.
Born in 1902
A decorated war hero and talented all-rounder cricketer who played for both Australia and England, known for his aggressive batting style and effective medium-pace bowling.
Born in 1903
A dominant right-handed batsman and successful coach who held multiple records for his impressive cricketing career, including the highest individual Test score for England.
Born in 1905
A talented English cricketer who played for Kent County Cricket Club and was known for his impressive bowling skills, taking over 1,000 wickets in his career.
Born in 1894
A renowned opening batsman who dominated cricket in the early 20th century, known for his exceptional defensive skills and record-breaking partnerships.
65 Years Old
A former All Blacks captain and chairman of the New Zealand Rugby Union, known for his leadership and contributions to the sport's governance.
