An English cricketer who played first-class cricket and later became a referee, known for his umpiring in several high-profile matches. He was a respected figure in the cricket community during his time.
Raman Subba Row is renowned for his exceptional cricketing skills, which propelled him to international fame and earned him a place among the Wisden Cricketers of the Year in 1961. As a lefthanded opening batsman and occasional legspin and googly bowler, Subba Row left an indelible mark on the cricketing world.
Born on 29 January 1932, in Streatham, Surrey, England, to an Indian father, Panguluri Venkata Subba Rao, and an English mother, Doris Mildred Pinner, Subba Row was educated at Whitgift School and Cambridge University. His rich cultural heritage and educational background laid the foundation for his future success.
Subba Row's cricketing career spanned several years, during which he played for Cambridge University, Surrey, and Northamptonshire. He took over as captain of Northamptonshire in 1958 and led the side for four seasons, achieving considerable success as a batsman. His impressive records include scoring the county's highest ever innings, 260 not out, in 1955, and bettering it with 300 against Surrey, the County Champions, at the Oval in 1958.
Subba Row played in thirteen Test matches for England, opening the batting regularly from 1959 to 1961. He scored centuries in his first Test against the Australians in 1961 and in his last match against them at the Oval. His exceptional skills earned him a place among the Wisden Cricketers of the Year in 1961.
In 1961, Subba Row retired from first-class cricket at the age of 29 to pursue a career in public relations. He joined WS Crawfords advertising agency in Holborn and later became Chairman of Surrey (1974-1978) and an influential figure at Lords. He also served as Chairman of the TCCB and as an ICC match referee.
Subba Row was married to Anne and had a son and daughter, as well as eight grandchildren and a great-grandchild. His eldest son, Christopher, passed away in 2021. Subba Row passed away on 17 April 2024, at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of cricketers.
Subba Row was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire, a testament to his outstanding contributions to the world of cricket.
Raman Subba Row's remarkable cricketing career, coupled with his post-retirement achievements, has cemented his place as one of the greatest cricketers of all time. His influence on the sport continues to be felt, and his legacy will remain an inspiration to aspiring cricketers for years to come.
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