Vale Ken English

Life Member
Hall of Fame inductee
1970s Team of the Decade
1st XI Premiership player 1973-74
2nd X1 Premiership player 1976-77, 1980-81
2nd XI Bowling 1977-78
1st XI Cap No. 363

Ken English passed away on the 1st of January 2022 aged 75 years.

Ken joined the Club from Sandringham CC in 1973 and immediately earned a place in the premiership winning 1st XI. In the grand final Ken played a major role taking 5/25 to rout Moorabbin in the second innings to set up a relatively easy outright win. In that season Ken took 35 wickets for the 1st XI including 8/20 against his old side.

Not tall for a fast bowler, Ken was a genuine speedster who bowled a ‘heavy’ ball from a short run-up. He unsettled many who played against him plus many more who had to face him on the turf practice wickets at the David Road oval (now the Boss James Reserve).

In the 1975-6 season Ken joined a select band taking 9 wickets (for 17 runs) in an innings against Glenhuntly, setting a 2nd XI record. His match figures of 15/42 also remain a record for the 2nd XI. Ken also took other big bags of 7/24 and 7/29 for the 2nd and 3rd XIs respectively. He was clearly a match winner on his day.

Ken more than holds his own among the outstanding quicks Hampton produced in the 70s and 80s and was highly regarded in VJCA Senior Division circles. Ken was an obvious inclusion in the 70s Team of the Decade and later as an inductee into the Hall of Fame.

Ken’s contribution at Hampton was not limited to the playing field. Ken served on the committee for several years and assumed the role of VJCA delegate before becoming Club Secretary in 1995-6. Ken later became the 1st XI Team Manager / Scorer for several years to conclude an association with the Club spanning some 25 years. His outstanding contribution to the Club was recognised by his elevation to Life Member in 1993.

Past player tributes:
One of our best ever quicks, hated facing him in the nets – Doug Powell
Ken was a true gent and a highly valued club member – John Wintle
Kenny was a skilful bowler and great clubman – Paul Ryan
Ken generated a lot of speed from a short run up. A very nice guy – a pleasure to play with – Dennis Bouyer

He will be sadly missed.

Condolences to Ken’s family and friends.

R.I.P Kenny English.

Funeral details:
Friday 14th January 10am at WD Rose, Marriage Road Brighton East.