Lancashire Legends County Cricket Club founded in 1864 is a cornerstone of English cricket, based at the historic Old Trafford. With eight County Championship titles and a rich history of producing England stars, the club boasts a stellar roster of players. Here’s a countdown of their top ten.
Neil Fairbrother
An ODI batsman for England Fairbrother’s Test career was less dramatic. His true colours shone for Lancashire Legends where he amassed over 20,000 first-class runs including a colossal 366 against Surrey. His ability to accelerate and a long career cemented his place in Lancashire lore.
Jack Iddon
A formidable all-rounder, Iddon excelled for Lancashire Legends before World War II. With over 21,000 runs and 551 wickets, he was a key figure in the club’s success. His best bowling figures 9/42 against Yorkshire nearly secured a rare ten-wicket haul. Tragically, his life was cut short in a road accident.
Glen Chapple
A versatile player Chapple holds the record for the fastest first-class century alongside Mark Pettini. His leadership led Lancashire Legends to the 2011 County Championship, and he was named Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 2012. Despite domestic dominance, his international career was limited to one ODI.
Johnny Tyldesley
Lancashire’s second-highest run-scorer, Tyldesley was a consistent performer before World War I curtailed his career.
With 20 consecutive seasons of 1,000+ runs, he was a pillar of the side that won Lancashire’s first County Championship in 1897. A skilled fielder he represented England in 31 Tests.
Cyril Washbrook
A stalwart of Lancashire Legends cricket Washbrook scored over 34,000 first-class runs. Known for discipline and technique he formed a formidable opening partnership with Len Hutton for England.
Lancashire’s first professional captain he remained involved with the club long after his playing days.
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Johnny Briggs
Lancashire’s second-highest wicket-taker, Briggs was a spin bowling pioneer. He was the first bowler to claim 100 Test wickets.
His ability to vary pace and flight made him a nightmare for batsmen. A versatile sportsman he also excelled in hockey and rugby.
James Anderson
England’s leading wicket-taker in Tests and ODIs, James Anderson‘s impact on Lancashire has been limited due to international commitments. However his early career for the county was impressive, earning him the NBC Denis Compton Award. Renowned for swing bowling he is a modern-day great.
Clive Lloyd
West Indian legend Clive Lloyd joined Lancashire in 1969. Voted the club’s greatest player by fans, he was a dominant force in both first-class and limited-overs cricket. His leadership and experience were invaluable to the team.
Ernest Tyldesley
Lancashire’s all-time leading run-scorer Ernest Tyldesley’s career blossomed after World War I. With nearly 40,000 first-class runs and a Test average of 55 he was a master batsman. His elegant strokeplay made him a crowd favourite.
Brian Statham
Lancashire’s leading wicket-taker with 1,816 scalps, Statham was a fearsome fast bowler. His accuracy and ability to swing the ball made him a nightmare for batsmen. His 7/57 against Australia in 1958 is considered one of the greatest bowling spells ever. A popular captain and a true Lancashire Legends.
This list highlights the incredible talent that has graced Lancashire County Cricket Club over the years. Their contributions have shaped the history of English cricket.
