Raman Subba Row, England Cricket Legend, Passes Away at 92
Raman Subba Row, a legendary figure in English cricket, passed away at the age of 92. Subba Row’s illustrious career spanned playing, administration, and match refereeing.
As an opener for England, Subba Row played 13 Tests between 1958 and 1961, amassing three centuries and averaging an impressive 46.85. Despite his early retirement from international cricket at the age of 29, he remained deeply involved in the sport.
Subba Row’s post-playing career was equally remarkable. He founded a successful public relations firm while maintaining close ties to cricket. He served as chairman of Surrey County Cricket Club and played a pivotal role in establishing the Test and County Cricket Board (TCCB), the forerunner of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).
Prior to his passing, Subba Row held the distinction of being England’s oldest living men’s Test cricketer. ECB Chair Richard Thompson expressed deep sadness at his passing, acknowledging his immense contributions to the sport.
Born in Streatham, Subba Row made his Surrey debut in 1953, contributing to the team’s remarkable run of seven consecutive County Championships. He later joined Northamptonshire in 1955 and became captain in 1958, earning his England debut against New Zealand that same year.
A finger injury prevented him from participating in the 1958-59 Ashes series, but he returned to the side in 1961 for the visit of Australia. Subba Row scored centuries in the first and fifth Tests, helping England secure a 2-2 draw.
Overall, Subba Row’s first-class career spanned ten years and 260 matches, during which he accumulated over 14,000 runs and claimed 87 wickets with his legspin.
After retiring from playing, Subba Row became a key figure in developing the commercial side of Surrey and The Oval. He also played a leading role in the foundation of the TCCB, serving as its chairman from 1985 to 1990. Additionally, he managed England’s tour to India and Sri Lanka in 1981-82.
In recognition of his services to cricket, Subba Row was awarded a CBE in 1991. He went on to serve as an ICC match referee from 1992 to 2001, overseeing 41 Tests and 119 ODIs.
ICC General Manager of Cricket Wasim Khan expressed condolences on behalf of the organization, acknowledging Subba Row’s contributions as a player, administrator, and match referee.