Sporting icons : Ken Barrington - Englands dependable batting icon - Career HLs & video

 

Ken Barrington, born on 24 November 1930 in Reading, Berkshire, England, was one of England’s most consistent and determined batsmen. Known for his tenacity and adaptability, Barrington was a right-handed batsman who blended defensive resilience with attacking flair when required. His remarkable ability to perform under pressure earned him admiration across the cricketing world.

Style of Play

Barrington was renowned for his disciplined approach to batting. While his defensive technique formed the backbone of his play, he had an expansive range of strokes, making him equally adept at attacking when the situation demanded. His adaptability made him a reliable middle-order batsman, especially in adverse conditions.

Test Batting Records

Matches: 82

Innings: 131

Runs Scored: 6,806

Batting Average: 58.67

Centuries: 20

Half-Centuries: 35

High Score: 256 (vs. Australia, Old Trafford, 1964)

Barrington’s average of 58.67 is one of the highest in Test history, highlighting his exceptional consistency across 13 years of international cricket.

First-Class Career

Matches: 435

Runs Scored: 31,714

Batting Average: 45.63

Centuries: 76

Half-Centuries: 167

A stalwart of the county circuit, Barrington was a prolific scorer for Surrey. His domestic performances ensured his place among cricket's finest batsmen.

Career Highlights

1. 1955 Test Debut: Scored 70 runs in his second innings against South Africa, showcasing his potential early.

2. 256 vs. Australia (1964): A monumental innings at Old Trafford during the Ashes, one of his career-best performances.

3. Tour of India (1961-62): Scored 594 runs at an average of 99.00, including three centuries, against quality spin bowling on subcontinental pitches.

4. Ashes Heroics: Barrington scored consistently against Australia, amassing 2,116 runs in 23 matches at an average of 63.00, solidifying his place as a key player in the iconic rivalry.

Major Batting Performances

172 vs. Australia (Sydney, 1963): An innings marked by patience and control on a difficult pitch.

256 vs. Australia (Manchester, 1964): A marathon innings that demonstrated his endurance and skill.

137 vs. West Indies (Lord’s, 1966): Played a match-saving innings against one of the fiercest bowling attacks of the time.

Legacy

Ken Barrington’s legacy lies in his unparalleled consistency and adaptability. His ability to rise to the occasion in challenging circumstances made him a cornerstone of England's batting during the 1950s and 1960s. His Test batting average of 58.67 stands as a testament to his greatness and ranks among the best in cricket history.

A gentleman on and off the field, Barrington was also a mentor to younger players after his retirement. His contributions to cricket, both as a player and later as a selector and coach, left an indelible mark on the sport.

Watch the below video on Ken Barrington to form a brief idea of his greatness