We Lost Another One: Ken Shuttleworth Gone at 80

By Lewis Barnett 26 August, 2025 5 mins read 267 Views

God, this one hits different.

Ken Shuttleworth died this month. Eighty years old. The exact details? Nobody's saying much about when or how, which honestly makes it feel even more real somehow. Like when your uncle just... isn't there anymore and the family keeps the specifics quiet.

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That Ashes Moment Nobody Talks About Anymore

Here's what gets me - Shuttleworth was part of something absolutely massive that cricket fans today barely remember. The 1970-71 Ashes tour. England's first win in Australia since 1932. Since bloody 1932! And Ken was right there in Brisbane for his Test debut, taking five wickets in the second innings like it was nothing.

Five Test matches total between 1970 and 1971. That's it. Career done.

But listen - this guy made history in January 1971 by claiming England's very first wicket in one-day internationals. The inaugural ODI at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. First ever. How's that for a legacy?

The Quote That Says Everything

Shuttleworth once said about his Test debut: "I just took it as another game... We got stick, which you expect when you're out there, but we were the first team since Douglas Jardine's in 1932 to win the Ashes in Australia."

Just another game. Right. Like winning your first Ashes series in Australia in nearly 40 years is just another Tuesday at teh office.

Speed Demon From St Helens

Born in St Helens (not exactly cricket's traditional heartland), Ken joined Lancashire in 1964 and became their go-to pace bowler behind Brian Statham. And apparently, the man had serious wheels. In a 2021 interview with The St Helens Star, he claimed: "I bowled as fast as any quick you see now."

Bold statement from an 80-year-old, but you know what? The numbers back him up.

484 wickets at 22.92 for Lancashire. His best figures? 7 for 41 against Essex in 1968. Peak season was 1970 with 74 wickets. Plus he was instrumental in Lancashire's ridiculous limited-overs run - three straight Gillette Cups (1970-72) and two Sunday League titles. That 5 for 13 against Garry Sobers' Nottinghamshire in 1972 must have been something to watch.

What Could Have Been

Injuries cut his international career short. Always the way, isn't it? The talented ones get their bodies broken before they can show us everything they've got. He toured Pakistan with the Commonwealth XI in 1967-68 under Richie Benaud, played against the Rest of the World at Lord's in 1970... but that was basically it for the big stage.

After hanging up his spikes, Ken went into business for a while (because apparently fast bowlers need day jobs too), then came back as a first-class umpire. Lancashire inducted him into their Hall of Fame in 2021 - probably should've happened sooner, but better late than never.

The People Left Behind

He leaves behind his wife Barbara and daughters Sara and Hannah. Three women who knew him not as "that fast bowler from the 70s" but as husband and dad. That's the part that really matters, isn't it?

Another piece of cricket history gone. Another reminder that the game we love is built on the shoulders of people who won't be around forever.

Rest easy, Ken. That first ODI wicket will always be yours.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I maintain my cricket gear?

Maintaining your equipment will increase its life expectancy. Store your cricket bats in an oiled place and keep them cool and dry. It is important to keep the balls dry and clean. To prevent odors and moisture buildup, it is important to air out pads, helmets, and gloves after each use. Examine your gear frequently for wear.

What is different between leather and synthetic cricket balls?

Synthetic cricket balls are usually made of rubber or similar materials and are designed for practice or casual play. Although they are more durable and less expensive than leather cricket balls, they do not provide the same feeling or performance. The traditional leather ball is used by professional teams and provides a much more realistic and superior experience.

What kind of cricket helmet do I need?

Cricket helmets must meet safety standards to protect against high-speed balls. Look for helmets that are both compliant with safety regulations and comfortably fit your head. Ensure the grill guards your face without obstructing your line of sight, and that the helmet has good ventilation. For a comfortable fit, you need adjustable straps.

Is a thighguard necessary in cricket and how should I choose it?

Thigh guards offer essential protection to batsmen who face fast bowlers. Look for a thigh protector that offers adequate protection without restricting your movement. It should fit comfortably and snugly around the thigh. Ideally, it would be adjustable for a custom-fit.

What cricket bat would be best for beginners and why?

Beginners are advised to choose a bat with a low weight that will allow them to easily control their technique as they develop. It is best to choose a lower-grade English willow or Kashmir bat, which offers better performance at a price that's more affordable than professional grade bats.

What are the differences between the various cricket kit bags available and which is best for you?

The bags can be in a variety of styles, from duffle bags to backpacks and wheeled bags. The choice is based on the amount you want to carry. For players with a complete set, a wheeled backpack is ideal. It makes transporting the bag easier. If you are traveling frequently or have little equipment, a duffle bag or backpack may be more convenient.

Statistics

Nearly 50% of amateur cricketers have experienced equipment-related discomfort or injury due to improper fitting.
Studies show that players who wear thigh pads have a 25% lower risk of sustaining severe bruises or contusions.
The global cricket equipment market is expected to grow by 3.3% annually from 2020 to 2024.
Nearly 85% of cricketers agree that the choice of grip significantly affects their batting comfort and control.
Close to 60% of cricket players report improved batting performance after selecting a bat with the correct size and weight.
Studies show that leather cricket balls can deteriorate up to 30% in performance after 80 overs of play.
On average, cricket pads have a functional lifespan of about 4 to 5 years with regular use and proper care.
It is estimated that a well-maintained cricket bat can last for around 1000 hours of play, whereas neglected bats might last only a third of that time.

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How To

How to choose the right size cricket bat

Choosing the correct size cricket bat for performance and comfort is essential. You can measure the size of the bat by placing it beside you. The top should reach your thigh. The size charts provide a guide to matching the bat size with a child's height. Swing your bat to ensure that you can easily hold and maneuver it. The weight must be manageable. It should not cause you to strain your arms and shoulders.