Brian Butler (cricketer) facts for kids

Brian Danvers Butler (born April 18, 1876 – died August 18, 1916) was an English cricketer and a brave officer in the British Army. He played a sport called first-class cricket, which is the highest level of the game below international matches. Brian was also a soldier who fought for his country during a very big war.

His Life and Cricket

Brian was born in April 1876 at Swithland Hall in Leicestershire. His father was the Earl of Lanesborough.

Playing Cricket

In his younger years, Brian played cricket for the Leicestershire Second XI. This means he played for the reserve team, not the main one. Later, he moved to East Grinstead in Sussex. There, he was a very popular person. He played for the East Grinstead Cricket Club and also enjoyed playing golf.

Brian became a member of the famous Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) in 1909. He played two important first-class cricket matches for the MCC. Both of these games were against Hampshire. He played one match in 1913 and another in 1914.

Serving His Country

When the First World War began, Brian Butler joined the British Army. In April 1915, he became a second lieutenant in the King's Royal Rifle Corps. This was his first officer rank. A few months later, in September 1915, he was promoted to the temporary rank of lieutenant.

Brian fought on the Western Front. This was a major battle area during the war. Sadly, he was killed during a very big battle called the Battle of the Somme. He died on August 18, 1916, while fighting for his country.