TRIBUTES have been paid to Worcestershire County Cricket Club legend Duncan Fearnley, who passed away aged 83 last Friday after a brief illness.
Duncan was an integral part of the famous Worcester club for decades, having served as a player, Chair, President and Honorary Vice-President.
He was also renowned globally as a premier cricket bat manufacturer.
Born in Pudsey in 1940, Duncan moved to Worcestershire in 1960 after playing for Yorkshire Seconds.
Over seven years, he made 97 appearances as a left-handed batter, helping the club win the 1964 County Championship.
He left the club in 1968 but returned in 1972 as the Second Eleven Captain.
Around this time, his Worcester bat manufacturing business was thriving, with cricket legends such as Sunil Gavaskar, Ian Botham, Graham Gooch, and Allan Border choosing Fearnley bats and equipment.
He was named Chair of the County club in 1986, leading them through a golden 12-year period that included two County Championship titles, two Sunday League titles, the Refuge Assurance Cup, the Benson and Hedges Cup, and the NatWest Trophy.
His tenure as Club President followed from 2011 to 2013, and he was later elected as Honorary Vice-President.
Paul Pridgeon, Worcestershire’s Acting Chair, said: “Duncan’s passing is a tremendous loss.
“His contributions as a player, an administrator, and a passionate supporter of the Club were immeasurable.
“He was the heart and soul of Worcestershire County Cricket Club, leaving an indelible mark on the Club.
“His legacy as a bat-maker and his profound love for the Club will always be remembered.
“We have lost a true cricketing legend.”
