Former Kent and England bowler Alan Igglesden dies aged 57

The seamer represented his country on seven occasions, dismissing Steve Waugh among his six international victims, and took 693 wickets across all formats

Former Kent and England bowler Alan Igglesden has died, the Professional Cricketers’ Association has announced.

The seamer represented his country on seven occasions, dismissing Steve Waugh among his six Test victims, and took 693 wickets across all formats, most of which came for Kent where he played for the vast majority of his career.

Five years on from his final international appearance, Igglesden was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour in 1999 after suffering an epilectic fit while playing Minor Counties cricket for Berkshire.

“The PCA is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Alan Igglesden, who died peacefully at the age of 57 beside wife Liz, father Trevor and brother Kevin on the morning of Monday 1 November, whilst listening to his favourite musician Van Morrison,” a statement read.

“An absolute inspiration to everyone he encountered, ‘Iggy’ was a true cricketing giant in Kent, the county where he spent his entire playing career. Throughout his journey, Iggy’s strength and courage in the face of adversity were nothing short of inspirational.

“Beloved by his students throughout his time in teaching, he went on to father one daughter, Beth, now eight years of age, as he built a family of his own alongside Liz.”

The PCA is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Alan 'Iggy' Igglesden on the morning of Monday 1 November.

— PCA (@PCA) November 1, 2021

Following his diagnosis, which forced him to retire from professional cricket, he went on to coach cricket at Sutton Valence School in Kent. He suffered strokes in 2018 and 2020.

He told The Independent in 2008: “I’ve always been very positive and it's in my nature to be laid-back, which has often helped. In terms of the future, I just try to take each day as it comes. The tumour doesn’t stop me doing anything at all and although bungee jumping isn’t part of the equation, I’ve managed to go hang-gliding in Turkey and cage-diving among great white sharks in South Africa.”

Speaking to the Professional Cricketers’ Trust in May, wife Liz said: “None of this is to do with lifestyle, he got a brain tumour even though he never drank, smoked or drove badly.

“He got a brain tumour because he got dealt a rubbish hand, then he had a stroke, then another stroke. We’re waiting for lightning to strike twice now because he’s been that unlucky.”

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