Wicket-Keeping

R. T. Stanyforth may not be a celebrated name in cricket, but he deserves to be remembered. Born in 1892, the Yorkshireman was the only man to captain England without previously playing county cricket. A wicket-keeper who played mainly for the Army, he unexpectedly led England on the 1927-28 South African tour, appearing in four Tests and earning praise as a capable captain and popular personality. He later played briefly for Yorkshire and toured the West Indies in 1929 before injury ended his playing career. A Lieutenant-Colonel and MCC trustee, Stanyforth remained closely associated with cricket until his death.