Sir George Oswald Browning Allen

 

Born 1902, Sydney. Australia- Died 1989, London

Played for Cambridge University, Middlesex and England

Gubby Allen lived and breathed cricket. Born in Sydney, he played all his test cricket for England, although his uncle RC Allen played for Australia. He was very much involved in the politics of cricket and did a lot of work behind the scenes, making sure that the great game would be kept honourable and great. This meddling unfortunately led to him having many enemies, but was without doubt done for the good of the game.

 

His natural all round skill made him a valuable team member with his ability to bat, bowl fast medium paced deliveries and field close in.

 

The event that probably showed the strength of character of the man happened in 1932/3 - Bodyline. Jardine could not do without Gubby Allen and Allen knew it (or at least hoped he did) for he took a brave and open stance against his captain. Jardine asked Allen to bowl leg theory during the season and every time he was asked, Allen refused to bowl it. Jardine never created a fuss and allowed Allen to bowl to an orthodox field in every Test match. As a matter of interest, he took 21 wickets during the series, 12 behind Larwood who bowled both conventionally and leg theory.

 

Gubby Allen was involved in cricket administration long after his playing career had ended, serving as Chairman of Selectors from 1955 to 1963, living within a six hit of Lord's helped matters!