The NSW cricket community is in mourning following the passing this week of former Blues player, Alan Wyatt, aged 89.
Wyatt pictured top row, middle – full image at bottom.
Wyatt played Sydney Premier Cricket for Western Suburbs, before going on to notch up 20 Sheffield Shield appearances for NSW.
He was NSW Men’s Team player number 501, making his First Class debut in December 1956 and playing three seasons for the Blues in which they won Sheffield Shield titles in each.
Wyatt was an opening bowler and plucky tail-end batsman who contributed to several key partnerships with both bat and ball during his three years with the Blues.
Wyatt’s best bowling figures for an innings and a match both came in the same fixture, a victory over South Australia in 1957/58. He took 5 for 36 in the first innings and then a further 2 for 41 in the second dig for overall figures of 7 for 77.
In NSW’s last match of the 1956/57 Shield season, Wyatt helped the Blues avoid defeat against Victoria by making 40 at number 10 in NSW’s follow-on, after taking 5 for 100 in Victoria’s first innings. The draw enabled New South Wales to retain the Shield.
Cricket NSW CEO Lee Germon said Wyatt’s passing was a loss for the NSW cricket community.
“Alan played for NSW for three seasons, but history shows his grit and determination was admired by his teammates and supporters alike,” Germon said.
“He was primarily a fast bowler but made some significant contributions with the bat when his team and state needed it most.
“His passing is one of sadness for our community and we pass on our deepest condolences to his family and friends.”