Former England Cricketer Wayne Larkins Dies Aged 71

Wayne Larkins, former England and Northamptonshire cricketer known as 'Ned', has died at the age of 71 after a short illness. Larkins played 13 Tests and 25 ODIs for England between 1979 and 1991, including an appearance in the 1979 World Cup final and a memorable winning shot at Sabina Park in 1990 that secured a famous Test victory against the West Indies. His international career included a three-year ban due to participation in a rebel tour to South Africa, but he remained a prolific scorer and beloved figure in domestic cricket. Larkins made 716 appearances for Northamptonshire, scoring nearly 30,000 runs with 60 centuries and captained the team in over 50 matches, later playing for Durham and briefly for Minor Counties teams before retiring. Known for his powerful strokeplay and charismatic personality, he was celebrated for his infectious energy and warmth both on and off the field. His wife Debbie described him as someone who lit up every room and expressed that his family will carry his unique presence in their hearts forever.