Harry Pickett
Henry Pickett (26 March 1862 – 3 October 1907) was an English cricketer who represented Essex for 17 years although only the last four were at first-class level. A fast bowler he was 'powerfully built' and 'bowled with a high arm'.[1] His most significant performance came in 1895 when he took all ten Leicestershire wickets for 32 runs.[2] These are the best innings figures recorded by an Essex bowler,[3] the fourth best in the County Championship,[4] and the ninth best in first-class cricket.[5] Born in Stratford, Pickett first played for Essex in 1881 but it would be 13 years before the county was awarded first-class status. In the intervening period he did make several first-class appearances for the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), the first in 1884 against Sussex.[6] He played in Essex's first ever first-class match in 1894 but struggled in that first season taking 11 wickets at an average of 31.09.[7] The following season, Essex's first season in the County Championship, was more successful. He took 66 wickets, at 17.72, including the 10/32 against Leicestershire as well as five-fors in wins against Somerset and Hampshire.[7][8] Over the next two seasons he took 50 wickets at around 30.[7] He didn't play again for Essex following his benefit season in 1897, he played one match for the MCC in 1898 before two seasons of umpiring.[8][9] Following the end of his playing career he also coached at Clifton College.[10] Pickett disappeared on 27 September 1907 and a week later was found washed ashore on Aberavon beach.[10] His death is listed as suicide.[1] ReferencesWikimedia Commons has media related to Harry Pickett.
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