Update 17/3/18: A tree will be planted at Broomhills on the edge of the outfield in memory of Alf by family and friends on Good Friday.
All at Rankin's Cricket Club are saddened to hear of the passing of Alf Wheal who died yesterday at the age of 78 after a long illness. We offer our condolences to his family.
Alf represented Rankin's CC for over 44 years from 1954 until his retirement in 1998.
Alf's contribution to the club both on and off the pitch was immense. To those lucky enough to know him he was kind, generous, loyal and friendly man as well as an exceptional cricketer.
In his career, he played over 700 games taking 1358 wickets at an average of 13.05 and economy rate of 2.5 per over. His best bowling figures were 8/19 v Monarchs in 1969. Alfie's immaculate line and length combined with his ability to swing the ball made him one of the best amateur players in the county. There is no doubt that should he have wanted to play at a higher level he most certainly could have done. Alf's love of the club made it impossible for him to play anywhere else than his beloved Broomhills.
Alf was also a very useful lower order batsman who could hit a very long ball with his trusty 3lb plus bat. He scored 7756 runs at an average of 25.51. His top score of 104* was made against Rayleigh Mount in 1966. Alf scored 2 centuries and 28 fifties. These contributions would often be made coming in at number 8 with the top order having failed to do their job.
Alf supported the club in so many ways off the pitch, but his tireless work as a volunteer groundsman was a labor of love. His work on and around the main pitch has created the excellent facilities we have today.
Alf will be sadly missed by all of those who had the pleasure to know him. He was the true spirit of cricket. Rest in Peace.
Details of the funeral will be circulated once available.
As a mark of respect the club flag will fly at half mast on Friday night.