England Cricket It has produced some exceptional wicketkeeper-batsmen over the years, several achieving the feat of scoring a Test century at a very young age.
Here are the 5 youngest wicket takers to score a Test century for England:
5. Ollie Pope
Ollie PopeThe Surrey wicketkeeper-batsman scored his first Test century in 2022 at the age of 24 years and 333 days against Pakistan in Rawalpindi. Pope continued to cement his place in England’s middle order with his refined batting style and solid glovework.
4. Alan Knott
Alan Knott, one of England’s greatest wicket-takers, scored his first Test ton against New Zealand in 1971 at the age of 24 years and 330 days. Knott played 95 Tests for England and holds the record for most dismissals by an England wicketkeeper with 269.
3. Spirits
Kent’s Les Ames scored his first Test century against the West Indies at Kingston in 1930 at the age of 24 years and 121 days. Ames was one of the pioneers of the goalkeeper role, revolutionizing the position with his attacking style of play. He ended his career with 3,056 Test runs at an average of 40.56.
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2. Spirits
Ames makes the list again, scoring his second Test ton against the West Indies at Port of Spain in 1930 aged just 24 years and 60 days. Ames was a dominant force in the 1930s and held the record for most dismissals by an England wicketkeeper until Alan Knott overtook him.
1. Jamie Smith
Jamie Smith is the youngest wicket-keeper to score a Test century for England He scored a victory against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi 24 years and 40 days on August 23. Smith, a Surrey gloveman, announced himself on the international stage with a mature 111 in just his fourth Test match.
These five players showcase a rich history of talented goalkeepers in England. To score a Test century at such a young age is a testament to their skill and character. The future looks bright for UK captive stocks with leaders such as Pope and Smith.
