Worcestershire County Cricket Club are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Duncan Fearnley at the age of 83 following a brief illness.
Paul Pridgeon, Worcestershire’s Acting Chair, expressed that Duncan, who served the Club as a player, Chair, President and an Honorary Vice-President, was “an integral part of our Club for decades.” The Club extends its heartfelt condolences to his wife, Mary, and their family during this difficult time.
Duncan, a revered figure in the Club’s history, was also renowned globally as the premier cricket bat manufacturer, earning the trust and admiration of leading players of his era, including Clive Lloyd and Vivian Richards, thanks to his exceptional craftsmanship.
Originally from Pudsey, Duncan moved to Worcestershire in 1960 after playing for Yorkshire Seconds. Over seven years, he made 97 appearances as a left-handed batter, contributing significantly to the 1964 County Championship victory.
After departing the Club in 1968, he returned in 1972 as the Second Eleven Captain. Around this time, his Worcester-based bat manufacturing business was thriving, with cricket legends such as Sunil Gavaskar, Ian Botham, Graham Gooch, and Allan Border choosing Fearnley bats and equipment.
Duncan’s dedication to Worcestershire was unwavering. In 1986, he was named Chair, leading the Club through a golden era that included two County Championship titles, two Sunday League titles, the Refuge Assurance Cup, the Benson and Hedges Cup, and the NatWest Trophy over a period of just twelve years.
His tenure as Club President from 2011 to 2013, followed by his election as a Honorary Vice-President, were sources of immense pride for him.
Pridgeon reflected, “Duncan’s passing is a tremendous loss. His contributions as a player, an administrator, and a passionate supporter of the Club were immeasurable. He was the heart and soul of Worcestershire CCC, leaving an indelible mark on the Club.
“His legacy as a bat-maker and his profound love for the Club will always be remembered. Today, we have lost a true cricketing legend.”
He will be profoundly missed by everyone connected with the Club.
