Former England cricket player Tony Pigott has passed away at 67. Pigott, who achieved over 1,000 wickets during his career, died on Sunday.
The ex-Sussex seam bowler experienced a heart attack after overcoming oesophageal cancer. Pigott was renowned for his performances in the County Championship and his sole appearance for the England team, a memorable moment in cricket history.
In 1984, Pigott received a last-minute call-up to play for England against New Zealand in Christchurch, despite having a wedding scheduled during the series. Opting to prioritize his national team commitment, Pigott delayed his wedding plans and traveled to New Zealand, where he managed to secure two wickets.
Unfortunately, Pigott’s debut match ended in a defeat for England as the hosts triumphed by an innings and 132 runs within three days at Lancaster Park. This marked Pigott’s only game for the national team.
During his time at the county level, Pigott spent 18 years at Sussex before transferring to Surrey in 1994 due to recurring injuries, eventually becoming the second-team coach. In 1997, he returned to Sussex and later became the CEO after leading a successful takeover. Pigott played a crucial role in laying the groundwork for Sussex’s achievements, including their first County Championship title in 2003.
Under Pigott’s leadership, Hove became the first cricket ground in the UK to install floodlights. He was affectionately known as ‘Lester,’ likely in reference to the renowned jockey Lester Piggott.
Following Pigott’s demise, tributes have poured in from the cricket community. Former Sussex captain Chris Adams expressed his deep respect for Pigott’s positive impact on the club and his personal life. Adams credited Pigott for influencing his decision to join Sussex in 1998, highlighting Pigott’s optimistic and caring personality.
Adams shared further condolences on social media, emphasizing Pigott’s irreplaceable presence and the loss felt by many who knew him. Ex-Sussex wicket-keeper and former umpire Ian Gould also mourned Pigott’s passing, describing him as a remarkable individual.
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