Tony Pigott, the previous England and Sussex fast-medium bowler, has died on the age of 67, abandoning a protracted and influential legacy in English cricket. Pigott passed away on 1 February 2026 in Tunbridge Wells, reportedly following a heart attack. Born Anthony Charles Shackleton Pigott in London in 1958, he got here up through the domestic game and forged a first-class profession that spanned nearly twenty years.
Pigott’s first-class statistics reflect his consistency as a bowler and useful lower-order batsman. Over 260 matches for Sussex and later Surrey, he took 672 wickets at a median of 30.99, while adding 4,841 runs with the bat, including a highest rating of 104 not out. The proud Sussex product also played 270 List A games, claiming 377 wickets and contributing worthwhile runs.
His international profession was transient but memorable. Called into the England side as an emergency alternative in the course of the 1983-84 tour of Recent Zealand, Pigott featured in his only Test in Christchurch. In that match, he finished with figures of two for 75 and was later quoted reflecting on the experience: “It was a privilege to wear the Three Lions cap,” highlighting the pride he took in his short stint at the best level.
Leadership Beyond the Boundary
After his playing days, Pigott transitioned into administrative and training roles, demonstrating the leadership qualities that made him a respected figure off the sector. He returned to Sussex in management, serving as Chief Executive Officer from 1997 to 1999, helping to shape the club’s direction during a transformative period.
In 2005, Pigott joined the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) as a Pitch Liaison Officer, a job wherein he became an influential presence at domestic matches. Because the ECB described it, his responsibilities included advising on ground conditions and player conduct, and he was known to have said, “Cricket’s spirit off the sector matters as much as on it,” underlining his commitment to upholding the sport’s values.
When the position of Cricket Liaison Officer was formalised in 2015 — later evolving into what’s now akin to the Match Referee role — Pigott was among the many first appointed. He continued in that capability through the 2018 season, bringing experience and a peaceful authority to domestic fixtures.
A Lasting Legacy
Tributes from colleagues and cricket organisations poured in following his death. The ECB, in an announcement, highlighted Pigott’s dedication to the game, noting his impact on players, officials, and fans alike. “His contribution to English cricket was immense and is not going to be forgotten,” they said, capturing the love and respect he garnered inside the game.
Tony Pigott’s life and profession embodied a deep commitment to cricket — as a bowler, an administrator, and an envoy for the game. His passing at 67 marks the top of a distinguished chapter in English cricket history.
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