Lives in Cricket No 1 - Allan Watkins

Foreword By Don Shepherd Career statistics clearly demonstrate that Allan Watkins was a genuine all-round cricketer, highly skilled in three disciplines – batting, bowling and fielding; a man who served Glamorgan and England proudly to the best of his considerable ability. He should have received more than 15 caps for his country. Left-handed in all things, Allan presented a reassuring presence as a middle-order batsman, steady and strong with temperament to fight the battle in adverse circumstances or attack with relish in pursuit of victory. Strong off the back foot with powerful pulls and square cuts, as many bowlers of the time will testify. From a lengthy curving approach Allan was able to bowl swing and seam or left-arm spin as the conditions necessitated. Regularly the ball passed the right-hander’s outside edge to bring forth a wry smile. No question of ‘sledging’. In an age of wonderful specialist close fielders, he was outstanding. Mostly stationed at leg slip he was a constant threat, able to catch off the inside edge or off genuine strokes. Many bowlers, including myself, have much to thank him for. I clearly recall a startling diving catch to dismiss that fine player John Langridge from my bowling. On a wet Cardiff Arms Park surface, during my early days of pace bowling, we were able to measure his ‘skid’ marks - from take off to completion approximately 11 feet. Quite amazing. Cricketing days over, Allan became a much respected coach at Christ College, Brecon; and then at Framlingham and Oundle. My private thoughts were that he might return to Glamorgan as senior coach. Alas, it wasn’t to be. More’s the pity. Allan Watkins was a great team-mate, a wonderful cricketer, a family man and a friend to all who shared his company. One of Wales’ great sportsmen. 5