Tributes paid to Igglesden

Tributes have been paid to former Kent and England seamer Alan Igglesden who has died, aged 57. Igglesden, affectionately known as Iggy, revealed he was getting end of life care in May, following two major strokes and the growth of his brain tumour.

But inspirational Igglesden went on to complete the Professional Cricketers’ Trust’s 5k in May despite facing severe disabilities, raising money for the players’ charity that has supported him and his family. He made his debut for Kent in 1986 and made 283 appearances in total for the county, taking 592 wickets. The right-arm bowler was awarded his Kent county cap in 1989 during a season in which he took 90 wickets. For England, Igglesden made seven appearances, taking eight wickets.

In a statement, Kent said they were “devastated” to learn of his passing.

The statement added: “The thoughts of everyone at the club are with his wife, Liz, and his friends and family at this desperately sad time.” He was “an inspiration to everyone he encountered,” said the Professional Cricketers’ Association. It added: “Iggy was a true cricketing giant in Kent, the county where he spent his entire playing career. “Throughout his journey, Iggy’s strength and courage in the face of adversity were nothing short of inspirational.”

He retired in 1999 after being diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour. But he went on to raise money for charity through various events before his death on Monday morning.

Kent head coach Matt Walker said: “Losing such a wonderful man like Iggy is truly heart breaking.

“He helped me hugely in the early days of my career and then became a great friend. “He fought this illness so hard like the champion he is and I’ll miss him greatly.” Kent captain Sam Billings said: “Incredibly sad. An amazing human being who was so brave over the years. (He) will be sorely missed.” Igglesden was born in Farnborough and had a spell teaching at Sutton Valence School.