Kersey killed in car crash (3 Jan 1997)

Friday 3 January 1997

Obituary: Graham Kersey dies after crash

By Richard Bright

SURREY Cricket Club were in mourning yesterday after learning of the death of wicketkeeper Graham Kersey at the age of 25.

The former Kent player, who moved to the Oval in 1993, suffered severe head injuries when he was involved in a car crash in Brisbane, Australia, on Christmas Eve and died on New Year's Day.

As a mark of respect the England team will wear black armbands in the third one-day international against Zimbabwe in Harare today.

Surrey captain Alec Stewart, on tour with England, said: "We have lost not only a great cricketer, but also a tremendous team man. He was, without doubt, the most popular man on the staff - a true players' player."

Kersey, who was born in Plumstead, south London, was spending the winter in Brisbane playing for Western Suburbs District Cricket Club.

Paul Sheldon, Surrey's chief executive, clearly distressed at the loss of such a likeable and promising cricketer, said: "Not only have we lost a marvellous player, but also a very dear friend to the club and to the wider world of cricket.

"No one characterised the fighting spirit of a resurgent Surrey more than Graham. We extend our deepest sympathy to his family and wide circle of friends. He will be immeasurably missed."

He was a popular figure with team-mates and Surrey supporters alike, a dogged batsman who was not afraid to battle it out and on several occasions hauled Surrey out of trouble.

He was voted Player of the Year at the Oval in 1995 and was capped in September of last year.

Kersey played 53 first-class matches, claiming 169 catches and making a dozen stumpings. He also scored more than 1,500 runs at a respectable average of 23.20.

Source :: Electronic Telegraph (https://www.telegraph.co.uk)