Herbert Sutcliffe (born 24 November 1894 at
Summerbridge,
Nidderdale,
North Yorkshire; died 22 January 1978 at
Cross Hills, North Yorkshire) was an English
professional cricketer who represented
Yorkshire and
England as an
opening batsman. Apart from one match in 1945, his
first-class career spanned the period between the two World Wars. His first-class debut was delayed by the
First World War until 1919 and his career was effectively terminated in August 1939 when he was called up for military service in the imminent
Second World War.
A right-handed batsman, Sutcliffe was noted for his concentration and determination, qualities which made him invaluable to his teams in adverse batting conditions; and he is remembered as one of the game's finest "bad wicket batsmen". His fame rests mainly in the great opening partnership he formed with
Jack Hobbs for England between 1924 and 1930. He also formed notable opening partnerships at Yorkshire with
Percy Holmes and, in his last few seasons, the young
Len Hutton. During Sutcliffe's career, Yorkshire won the
County Championship 12 times. Sutcliffe played in 54
Test matches for England and on three occasions he toured Australia, where he enjoyed outstanding success. His last tour in 1932–33 included the controversial "
bodyline" series, in which Sutcliffe is perceived to have been one of
Douglas Jardine's main supporters. Although close friends have stated that Sutcliffe did not approve of bodyline, he...
Read More