Jeremy Coney

A very tall, fit, and enthusiastic allrounder, Jeremy Coney was an organised and correct batsman, a steady medium-pacer and a fine fielder, who became an exceptionally astute captain. He had appeared in Tests against all the other countries before taking over from Geoff Howarth in Pakistan in 1984-85. Very determined, he tended to produce his best when the chips were down. A good musician and a qualified teacher, he became a regular selection after a successful home series against Pakistan in 1978-79, and was an important member of the team that reached the semi-finals of the 1979 World Cup. Consistent batting, including a record seventh-wicket stand with Geoff Howarth, helped New Zealand to a shock series victory over West Indies in 1979-80, but it was not until the first Test against England in 1983-84 that he finally registered a maiden Test century, a painstaking eight-hour match-saving marathon of 174 not out. He further enhanced his reputation by leading New Zealand to a first series win in England, in 1986, endearing himself to spectators by his sunny disposition. When Bruce French was felled by a Hadlee bouncer at Lord's, it was Coney who permitted England to play two substitute wicketkeepers. He was awarded an MBE in 1986, and became a successful TV and radio sports commentator and presenter. Shrewd and witty, he was streets ahead of most other players-turned-pundits.
Christopher Martin-Jenkins