Arthur Haygarth cricket player (compiler of “Scores and Biographies”), dies.

On May 1, 1903, the cricketing world lost a prominent figure – Arthur Haygarth, best known for his role as the compiler of “Scores and Biographies.” His death marked a significant loss for the sport, as he had made invaluable contributions to the game throughout his career.

Arthur Haygarth was born on December 4, 1825, in Brighton, Sussex, England. He came from a well-to-do family and pursued a career in law. However, his true passion lay in cricket, and he dedicated a substantial part of his life to the sport.

Haygarth played as an amateur cricketer for various clubs, including the prestigious Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). Although he was not considered a star player, his love for the game led him to delve deeper into cricket statistics and history.

In 1862, Haygarth embarked on a mission to compile a comprehensive record of cricket scores and biographies. He painstakingly gathered information from newspapers, match reports, and personal accounts to create a one-of-a-kind resource. His dedication to accuracy and attention to detail made his work invaluable to future generations of cricket enthusiasts and historians.

“Scores and Biographies” was published in 1862 and became an instant success. The book contained detailed records and biographies of over 1,200 cricketers, covering matches played between 1772 and 1861. It quickly became a reference point for cricket historians, players, and fans alike.

Haygarth’s compilation work did not stop there. He continued collecting information and updating his records. In 1876, he released a second volume of “Scores and Biographies,” which expanded the coverage up until 1876. The release of each edition was eagerly awaited by the cricketing community, as Haygarth’s work provided invaluable insights into the greats of the game and the earliest days of cricket itself.

Apart from his work as a compiler, Haygarth also made contributions to the development of cricket rules and regulations. He was one of the founding members of the Sussex County Cricket Club and served as its president for many years. He played an instrumental role in organizing matches and promoting cricket in his county.

Haygarth’s dedication to the sport earned him respect from cricketing legends of his time. He was admired for his meticulous collection of cricket statistics and his commitment to promoting the sport’s history. His work laid the foundation for future cricket statisticians and historians, who built upon his legacy to create even more comprehensive records.

Arthur Haygarth’s death on May 1, 1903, was felt by the cricketing community worldwide. His passion for the sport and his contributions to cricket history have left an indelible mark. His books, “Scores and Biographies,” continue to be treasured by cricket enthusiasts, providing a glimpse into the early days of the game and the players who helped shape it.

Arthur Haygarth’s death in 1903 marked the loss of a prominent figure in the cricketing world. His work as the compiler of “Scores and Biographies” and his dedication to cricket history have made him an icon in the sport. His contributions continue to be appreciated, and his books remain a vital resource for cricket enthusiasts and historians.