The cricketing world mourns the loss of Raman Subba Row, a distinguished former England cricketer and ICC match referee, who passed away at the age of 92. His impactful contributions to the sport spanned from a stellar playing career to significant roles in cricket administration.
Raman Subba Row’s journey in professional cricket commenced with his role as a left-handed batsman. Over a period extending from 1958 to 1961, he represented England in 13 Test matches, amassing a total of 984 runs at an impressive average of 46.85. His record included three centuries, which underscored his prowess at the crease. Beyond his national team appearances, Subba Row was a stalwart in county cricket, where he played 260 first-class matches for Surrey and Northamptonshire. Over his distinguished first-class career, he scored 14,182 runs, which featured 30 centuries and 73 fifties, making a significant mark in domestic competitions.
His highest innings came when he scored a monumental 300, further cementing his legend in the annals of cricket history. Subba Row was not just noted for his batting but was also effective with the ball, securing 87 wickets in his first-class career.
Following his retirement from active competition, Subba Row did not sever his ties with cricket. His post-play career saw him transition into business where he successfully founded a public relations firm. However, his leadership and experience continued to benefit the sport. He notably served as the team manager during England’s tour of India and Sri Lanka in 1981, and his leadership qualities came to the fore as he took on the role of chairman for the Test and County Cricket Board from 1985 to 1990, a precursor to the modern England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).
Subba Row also had a significant stint as an ICC match referee overseeing 41 Tests and 119 ODIs between 1992 and 2001, which speaks volumes about his understanding and respect for the game’s laws and spirit.
Richard Thompson, the current ECB Chair, expressed his sorrow over Subba Row’s passing: “We are extremely saddened to hear of Raman’s passing. He was a great cricket man whose remarkable career saw success both on and off the field – as a player, official, administrator, and Chair of both Surrey and the Test & County Cricket Board. Our sport owes him an enormous debt of gratitude, and on behalf of the ECB, we would like to send our sincere condolences to Raman’s friends and family at this sad time.”
Additionally, Wasim Khan, the ICC general manager, also paid tribute, saying, “It is sad to hear of the passing of Raman and I would like to extend deepest condolences on behalf of everyone at the ICC. Raman was a respected cricketer of his era, who went on to become the Chair of the Test and County Cricket Board. He was also one of the earliest ICC Match Referees, officiating very ably in different parts of the world.”
Subba Row’s legacy is characterized by his exemplary dedication to cricket, as a player and an administrator, making invaluable contributions to the fabric of the sport. The cricket community globally will remember him not only for his feats on the field but also for his endeavours to foster and administrate the game he loved so dearly. His passing marks the end of a significant chapter in cricket history, and he leaves behind a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire future generations in the sport.