Gordon Barker

Gordon Barke was an English first class cricket player who used to play for Essex county team. Born in Yorkshire in England, Barker was a right handed opening batsman. In 1954, he made his debut for the Essex team against the touring Canadians, and scored a century. His major teams included Essex and Marylebone Cricket Club.

Every year from 1955 to 1967, he scored total 1000 runs with his best being 1741 runs in 1960. He ultimately ended his cricket career with 21,893 runs for Essex County Cricket team. Barker was technically equipped batsman who had good knowledge of handling pressure and situations during a match. Other than cricket, Barker also played professional football making 57 league appearances for Southend United team between 1954 and 1959.

He played first class cricket from 1954 to 1971 and List A cricket from 1963 to 1971. Unlike the present coaches with their computers and clipboards, Barker was known as a coach having instinct and worked with his eye for talent. His encouragement, good and bad combination of encouragement and gentle cajoling made him the best coach for his players.

His death came as a blow for his teammates and players not to forget Essex who lost such a great character having an unquenchable passion for the sport.