Ex-county pro makes TV acting debut
A former Derbyshire cricketer has landed an acting role in a popular BBC drama
ESPNcricinfo staff
14-Sep-2016
From Derbyshire to Doctors: Hamza Siddique • Getty Images
Former Derbyshire batsman Hamza Siddique has landed his first television acting role in the BBC's long-running drama series 'Doctors'.
Siddique, who had two years on Derbyshire's staff and played three first-class matches for Cardiff MCCU, graduated from the Central School of Speech and Drama in London last year with a Masters degree in acting.
The 25 year-old, whose course was part-funded by the PCA, has since landed a part in 'Doctors' and will appear three forthcoming episodes of the daytime drama.
"I am playing a character called Zaroon Hanif who is the brother-in-law of Rhuma Hanif, one of the main cast members who is played by Bharti Patel," Siddique said.
"I landed the role through an auditioning process done at the BBC Elstree Studios. Filing took place over a couple of weeks in and around Birmingham which is where BBC 'Doctors' headquarters is based.
"Although it's not a major role it's certainly a start and the BBC credit always looks good on a CV. In and around 'Doctors' I've also done several short films and a few small theatrical pieces which is building up my experience and my CV nicely, hopefully leading to more and more opportunities."
Siddique is not the first cricketer to venture into acting. C. Aubrey Smith, the Sussex and England fast bowler, had a long film career and established the Hollywood Cricket Club when he settled in Los Angeles.
Len Hutton, Denis Compton, Alec Bedser, Godfrey Evans, Jim Laker and Cyril Washbrook appeared in the 1953 film 'The Final Test' alongside Jack Warner and Robert Morley.
Fred Trueman appeared in an episode of 'Dad's Army' in 1970 as former professional cricketer Ernie Egan and Rupert Webb, the former Sussex wicketkeeper, had a cameo role as the father of Hugh Grant's jilted bride in 'Four Weddings and a Funeral.'
Michael Bell, the former Warwickshire and Surrey left-arm swing bowler, also made a fleeting appearance as an extra in a market scene in 'Heroes and Villains' the Christmas episode of 'Only Fools and Horses' in 1996.