A determined middle-order batsman and decent offspinner, Tony Cottey began as a professional footballer with Swansea City, but it was only when he was released by them that his cricket career took off. He soon established himself in the Glamorgan side and for several seasons he was one of their most dependable batsmen, with a reputation of being a skilful player of spin. He was part of the side that won the Sunday League in 1993, the county's first title in 24 years, and four years later the Championship. At the end of 1998 he rejected a new contract, recalling what a hard decision that was, and opted to join Sussex on a five-year deal. It proved a sound move, and in 2003 he became one of a rare breed to win Championships with different counties, his 1149 runs a key to their success. It was the last of eight occasions he passed 1000 runs in a summer, and he retired at the end of the following season. He is now a popular after-dinner speaker.
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