Thomas Taylor (cricketer, born 1753) facts for kids

Thomas (Tom) Taylor (born 18 October 1753 in Ropley, Hampshire; died April 1806 in Alresford, Hampshire) was a very famous English cricket player from the 1700s. He played for the Hambledon Club and is known as one of the best cricketers of his time.

A Talented All-Rounder

Tom Taylor was known as an "all-rounder" in cricket. This means he was great at batting, bowling, and fielding! He started playing in 1775 and continued until 1798. He mostly played for Hampshire, but he also played for Berkshire when they had a top-level team.

Taylor's Skills on the Field

People who watched Tom Taylor play said he was amazing in the field. He was especially good at "cover fielding" and could throw the ball very strongly.

As a batsman, he was a powerful hitter. He scored many runs by hitting the ball hard. He was also a good bowler and took many wickets, which means he got many opposing batsmen out. His fielding was so good that some people said he was one of the best fielders they had ever seen!

Scoring Centuries

In August 1786, Tom Taylor achieved something special. He and another player named Tom Walker both scored over 100 runs in the same game. This was for the White Conduit Club against Kent at a place called Bourne Paddock. Taylor scored 117 runs in that game, which was his highest known score ever!

Tom Taylor played in 105 known first-class cricket matches between 1775 and 1798.

Life Outside Cricket

Like some other cricketers of his time, Tom Taylor also ran an inn. He owned the Globe Inn in Alresford.