A Tribute to “Ned”: Former England Batter Wayne Larkins Dies Aged 71

Former England and Northamptonshire batsman Wayne Larkins has passed away at the age of 71 after a short illness. The flamboyant right-hander, affectionately known as “Ned,” played 13 Tests and 25 ODIs for England between 1979 and 1991.
Larkins made his mark on cricket with his aggressive strokeplay and infectious personality. His international debut came in dramatic fashion when he played in the 1979 World Cup final against the West Indies at Lord’s. Though England lost that match, the young batsman had announced himself on the world stage.
A Career of Highs and Setbacks
The highlight of Larkins’ international career came during England’s 1989-90 tour of the West Indies. At Sabina Park in Jamaica, he struck the winning runs that gave England an unexpected 1-0 series lead against the mighty Caribbean side. It was a moment that cricket fans still remember fondly.
His Test career had an unusual pattern. After playing six Tests in the early 1980s, Larkins faced a three-year ban for joining the controversial rebel tour to South Africa in 1982. He returned to international cricket eight years later, proving that talent and determination can overcome setbacks.
A County Cricket Legend
At Northamptonshire, Larkins became a true county cricket icon. Over 700 appearances for the club saw him amass more than 40,000 runs and score 85 centuries. His swashbuckling style made him a crowd favourite at Wantage Road. Later in his career, he moved to Durham, helping establish the new county in professional cricket.
His wife Debbie shared touching words about the man behind the cricketer. “Ned loved everyone he met and everyone loved him. People were drawn to his infectious energy. He lit up every room and never wanted the party to finish,” she said.
The cricket community has lost not just a talented batsman but a character who embodied the joy of the game. Wayne Larkins will be remembered for his fearless batting, warm personality, and the happiness he brought to cricket grounds across England. His legacy lives on in the memories of those who watched him play and the lives he touched along the way.