English cricketer, fast bowler
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Key moments and achievements from Alan Ward's life.
Alan was born
· Birtinya, Kawana Waters, Queensland, Australia
Trial
Following a seven-wicket haul for Prestwich Works, Ward was invited to trial for the county. He also trialed at Sheffield United where he was observed closely by George Pope. This period marked his transition from industrial league cricket to the professional sphere.
Trial
Following a seven-wicket haul for Prestwich Works, Ward was invited to trial for the county. He also trialed at Sheffield United where he was observed closely by George Pope. This period marked his transition from industrial league cricket to the professional sphere.
Debut
Ward made his first appearance for Derbyshire in May against Essex. He took one wicket for 13 runs during his six overs on the field. This debut set the stage for his emergence as a leading member of the county side over the next decade.
Debut
Ward made his first appearance for Derbyshire in May against Essex. He took one wicket for 13 runs during his six overs on the field. This debut set the stage for his emergence as a leading member of the county side over the next decade.
Award
Ward claimed 57 first-class wickets and was named the Cricket Writers’ Club Young Cricketer of the Year. He also earned his county cap and made his England Test debut at Lord's against New Zealand. This year established him as one of the most formidable pace bowlers in the country.
Award
Ward claimed 57 first-class wickets and was named the Cricket Writers’ Club Young Cricketer of the Year. He also earned his county cap and made his England Test debut at Lord's against New Zealand. This year established him as one of the most formidable pace bowlers in the country.
International Match
Ward was selected to represent England one last time against the West Indies at Headingley. This year also marked the end of his tenure with Derbyshire before he moved to Leicestershire. He finished his international career with 14 wickets across five Test matches.
International Match
Ward was selected to represent England one last time against the West Indies at Headingley. This year also marked the end of his tenure with Derbyshire before he moved to Leicestershire. He finished his international career with 14 wickets across five Test matches.
Relocation
Ward moved to Queensland with his wife, Helen, to begin a long and quiet retirement. He remained there for twenty-five years, enjoying life with his children and grandchildren. He lived in Birtinya until his death in 2026.
Relocation
Ward moved to Queensland with his wife, Helen, to begin a long and quiet retirement. He remained there for twenty-five years, enjoying life with his children and grandchildren. He lived in Birtinya until his death in 2026.
Alan Ward passed away
