11/06/2026
The club are very saddened to hear of the passing of former player and scorer, Arthur Staves.
Arthur had already enjoyed a distinguished cricketing career in the local area before joining Wiseton whilst the club was in exile playing at Gringley on the Hill. Together with his sons, Richard and David, Arthur played for several more years before taking on the role of official scorer when the club joined the Bassetlaw League in 1992.
For over twenty years, Arthur kept immaculate scorebooks and, although much of the game is now recorded on computers, there remains something special about the old-fashioned art of keeping score by hand. Arthur’s books were renowned for their detail, accuracy and neatness.
During his time with Wiseton, Arthur served the club with distinction as scorer, vice-chairman and committee member. Even after stepping down from scoring duties, he remained a loyal supporter of the club and a familiar face around the ground.
Arthur was also a great supporter of young players. Despite the club not having a formal junior section, he was always on hand to offer advice and encouragement, and many players over the years benefited from his knowledge and experience. From Rob Wyles, Matt Loates and James Edgeley to more recent recruits Hayden and Heath Kay, countless players have been grateful for Arthur’s wisdom and support.
From my own personal memories of Arthur, one thing that will always stay with me are the car journeys to matches with Arthur, Steve Marshall and Graham Bell. They were often highly entertaining. Arthur and Steve would regularly have lengthy debates about cricket, usually from very different viewpoints, whilst a mischievous Graham would often give me a wink before deliberately saying something that would get the pair of them debating… strongly!
Looking back now, those journeys and the banter that came with them are great memories. Cricket clubs are built on friendships and characters as much as they are runs and wickets, and Arthur was very much a part of that.
Arthur will always be remembered fondly by everyone associated with Wiseton Cricket Club and we would like to pass on our deepest condolences to his family, especially his wife Kathleen and sons Richard and David.
Arthur’s funeral will take place on Friday 19 June 2026 at Lea Fields Crematorium at 11.30am.
If any members are in contact with former players who may not be on social media, we would be grateful if you could pass this information on.
Adam Kay
Chairman, Wiseton Cricket Club