Cricket Legend Alec Bedser Receives Knighthood for Services to the Game

Strategic Insights -

Alec Bedser, a medium-fast bowler who took 236 wickets for England in 51 post-war Test matches, has received a knighthood for his services to the game as a player and administrator. Bedser's career ended over 36 years ago, but his impact on English cricket remains significant. He managed three England tours and was chairman of selectors for a record 13 years until 1981. As a player with Surrey and England, Bedser was a childhood hero of Prime Minister John Major, and his identical twin brother, Eric, was an all-rounder who played at county level.

Key Takeaways:

  • Alec Bedser receives a knighthood for his services to English cricket as a player and administrator.
  • Bedser took 236 wickets for England in 51 post-war Test matches and dismissed the great Don Bradman in five successive Test innings.
  • He was the only bowler to dismiss Bradman twice for no score and is considered one of England's all-time finest bowlers.
  • Bedser was appointed OBE in 1964 and CBE in 1982, and served as chairman of selectors for a record 13 years from 1968 to 1981.
  • He managed three England tours and was a key figure in English cricket administration.
  • Bedser's twin brother, Eric, was an all-rounder who played at county level, and was a notable player in his own right.
  • Another cricket administrator, Ossie Wheatley, a former chairman of the Test and County Cricket Board's cricket committee, is appointed CBE.
  • Glen Kirton, a football administrator, is appointed OBE for his work as tournament director of Euro 96.
  • Redgrave and Hill are also honoured with awards for their respective sporting achievements.

Statistics:

  • Alec Bedser took 236 wickets for England in 51 post-war Test matches.
  • He dismissed Don Bradman in five successive Test innings and twice for no score.
  • Bedser served as chairman of selectors for a record 13 years from 1968 to 1981.
  • He managed three England tours and is considered one of England's all-time finest bowlers.
  • Redgrave becomes Britain's greatest Olympian by winning his fourth successive rowing gold medal.

Sources:

  • PAUL NEWMAN (no date)
  • WireServices News (no date)