Cricket fans across England are mourning the loss of a cherished figure, John Curtis, the beloved archivist and historian of Worcestershire County Cricket Club. He passed away at the age of 68, leaving behind decades’ worth of cricket records, memories, and stories that deepen our understanding and love for the game.
But John wasn’t just a man with a stack of old scorecards—he was a walking encyclopedia of Worcestershire cricket. Today, we remember his life, his passion, and the legacy he leaves behind for cricket lovers everywhere.
Who Was John Curtis?
For those who may not recognize the name, John Curtis was a lifelong Worcestershire cricket fan who turned his love for the sport into a remarkable role preserving its history. Officially titled the club’s historian and curator, he worked behind the scenes to document, archive, and share ten decades of Worcestershire’s cricketing journey.
Imagine someone who could tell you every score, every stat, and every quirky incident from a match that happened 40 years ago. That was John. But beyond facts, what made him truly special was the way he brought those moments to life—like pages turning in a dusty but magical book.
More Than Just Numbers: John’s Unique Role
In today’s fast-moving digital world, it’s easy to overlook the importance of history. But for cricket, a game so rooted in tradition, it’s vital. That’s where John Curtis came in. He kept Worcestershire’s cricketing soul intact, guarding everything from old match programs to century-old player contracts.
Working from his base at New Road—the home ground of Worcestershire CCC—John played a crucial role in maintaining the club’s archives. Over the years, he helped:
- Answer public queries from fans, journalists, researchers, and even cricketers themselves.
- Curate historical materials for club exhibitions and publications.
- Compile detailed scorecards and statistics for all levels of Worcestershire cricket—men’s, women’s, and academy squads.
Ask anyone who visited New Road’s library, and they’ll tell you John never said no to a cricket question. Whether it was about a match from 1973 or debates over who the best Worcestershire spinner was, John always had the answer—and usually a photograph or anecdote to go with it.
The Man Behind the Stats
Numbers paint one picture, but the stories behind them reveal the person. John was more than a historian. He was a fixture at matches, often found chatting with fans, players, and club staff. Whether rain delayed play or a last-wicket partnership unfolded, he was right there—recording, remembering, and reveling in it.
A particularly touching memory comes from Paul Pridgeon, Chair of Worcestershire’s Cricket Steering Group, who called John “a walking encyclopedia” and “a gentleman with a great sense of humour.” He added that John’s passion for Worcestershire cricket didn’t waver, even in his final months battling illness.
Did You Know?
John wasn’t paid for most of his contributions. His work with the archives and statistics was for the love of the game. Now, how many people can you say that about these days?
Why John’s Work Mattered (And Still Does)
Preserving cricket history isn’t just about nostalgia. It’s about learning what shaped the present. Young fans might know Moeen Ali’s explosive batting, but it’s because of historians like John Curtis that we remember players like Tom Graveney and Norman Gifford—legends whose stories still inspire today’s talent.
For Worcestershire CCC, having such a resource also strengthens community ties. When you know your club’s roots, you feel more connected to its future. That’s the priceless role John played—like a lighthouse guiding fans back to shore, reminding them why they first fell in love with cricket.
Tributes Pour In from the Cricket World
The news of John’s passing quickly prompted a wave of heartfelt tributes from across England. On social media, fans and former players shared memories and thanked him for keeping Worcestershire’s story alive. His painstaking work has helped future journalists, historians, and cricket lovers get their facts straight—and their hearts full.
“Thank you, John. For everything. For making sure our history didn’t go forgotten.” — A common sentiment echoed through Twitter and local cricket forums.
His Legacy Will Live On
In many ways, John Curtis may be gone, but his presence won’t fade. Why? Because his footprints are all over the club’s heritage—preserved in every story he told, every record he updated, and every question he answered with a smile.
And for the club, there’s a commitment to ensure his life’s work remains intact. Plans are in motion to further digitize the Worcestershire CCC archives and possibly dedicate part of the library or museum to John’s memory. It would be a fitting tribute for the man who made sure everyone else got remembered.
What Can We Learn from John?
In a world that often chases the next best thing, John Curtis showed us the importance of looking back. Honoring the past isn’t about being stuck in it—it’s about understanding where you came from, so you know where to go.
Maybe next time you’re at a cricket match—whether it’s a county game or an under-11 clash—you’ll think of John. You might wonder about the stories behind those whites, the boundaries, and the club badges. And just maybe, you’ll be inspired to become a chronicler in your own way.
Final Thoughts
John Curtis was proof that passion can be just as impactful as runs and wickets. He didn’t play first-class cricket or score century after century, but he supported the game in a way few ever can. He preserved the soul of Worcestershire cricket, and for that, we’re all better off.