Tributes Flow for Wayne Larkins: A Cricket Legend Passes Away at 71

Wayne Larkins, the beloved former England cricketer, has died at 71 after a brief illness. Known for his charisma and flair, Larkins left an indelible mark on the cricketing world. His wife shared a touching tribute, highlighting his infectious energy and love for family. As tributes pour in, Larkins is remembered not just for his achievements on the field but for his vibrant personality that endeared him to many. Discover more about his remarkable life and legacy in this heartfelt remembrance.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 29, 2025, 14:58 IST

Wayne Larkins: A Legacy Remembered

Wayne Larkins, the former England and Northamptonshire cricketer, has passed away at the age of 71 after a short illness. Affectionately known as 'Ned' within cricket circles, Larkins leaves behind a remarkable legacy characterized by his flair, resilience, and vibrant personality both on and off the pitch.

The Northamptonshire County Cricket Club confirmed his death, where he dedicated the majority of his two-decade career. Between 1979 and 1991, Larkins represented England in 13 Test matches and 25 One Day Internationals (ODIs). He is particularly remembered for scoring the winning runs during England's unexpected victory at Sabina Park on the 1989-90 tour of the West Indies. This match took place over eight years after his sixth Test appearance, as his career was interrupted by a three-year ban due to his involvement in the controversial 1982 rebel tour to South Africa.

Despite these setbacks on the international stage, Larkins thrived in domestic cricket, making over 700 appearances for Northamptonshire and accumulating more than 40,000 runs along with 85 centuries. His later years in cricket included a period at Durham before he hung up his boots.

Larkins was not only celebrated for his aggressive batting style but also for his vibrant personality. His wife, Debbie, shared a heartfelt tribute on the Northamptonshire website, stating:

'Ned loved everyone he met and everyone loved him. People were drawn to his infectious energy. He lit up every room and never wanted the party to finish. He adored his soul mate of a wife and his precious daughters. He will be partying up in the sky, raising a toast to everyone and to his own life. We are heartbroken but will always remember his uniquely impactful presence in our lives. He will remain in our hearts forever.'

As condolences and tributes continue to pour in from the cricket community, Wayne Larkins is fondly remembered as a player who truly embraced life and played the game on his own terms.