J.R.Napier played for Leigh CC by Pete Taylor

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Player:

JR Napier

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Reverand John Russell Napier was born on the 5th January 1859 at Preston Lancashire. He was born into a wealthy family and his father was part of the partnership of Napier and Goodier, Cotton Spinners. From 1883 to 1890 he held curacies at Leigh and Preston and it was during this period that he played for Leigh Cricket Club. He also made his debut for Lancashire in 1888 against the Australians who descibed him as the best fast bowler they had met in England. He took seven wickets in the match, which Lancashire won by 23 runs.

 

Later in the year he played his second and last match for Lancashire in which he played an important part. Yorkshire were batting and had a score of 80 for 5. Napier was brought on to bowl and in his 3.2 overs he took 4 wickets without conceeding a run.

 

After 1890 he moved from the area eventually to take up the post of Vicar at Old Windsor from 1911 until 1928. He died at his home in Bexhill-on-Sea on the 12th March 1939.

(Article: Copyright © 2003 Pete Taylor http://www.leighcc.org)