CRICKET.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 2334, 29 October 1908, Page 3

CRICKET.

NOTES.

Exit J. Wheatley. After an honorable career of over twenty-seven years in local cricket, J. Wheatley has joined the retired list. In the seventies “Johnny” played for such clubs as old Hagley Oakleaf Club and Bakers’ Cricket Club, and later for the old Addington Club (afterwards Sydenham and Addington). It was as a member of the Midland Club that Wheatley came to the front, and as such (represented his province for many years. Wheatley endeared himself to his clubmates by his geniality and unfailing good temper, and he was in every sense a real sportsman. Originally a bowler, Wlieatley developed batting abilities, which won him I am safe in saying (says “Scoring Board” in the “Canterbury Times”) his place in Canterbury Elevens, and that for play behind tiie wicket—cutting and log play—Wheatley is the finest batsman the province has seen. Shortly after the death.of Air. Ollivfer, Wheatley was elected Canterbury selector, the position he held right up to the present time. His teams havo always given general satisfaction, chiefly for the reason that the fielding was an indespensablo necessity in them, while they were also well balanced. Year after year he has faithfully attended his practices, and he can, with pride, point to a successfull career as a selector and player.