Biography
Arthur Ridley was a notable English cricketer born on September 11, 1852, in Bury, Lancashire. He played first-class cricket primarily for Lancashire and made his debut in 1873. Over the course of his career, Ridley established himself as a proficient right-handed batsman and a reliable right-arm medium pace bowler, contributing significantly to his team's successes in the late 19th century.
Ridley’s career spanned until 1885, during which he participated in 86 first-class matches, scoring 3,496 runs with an average of 25.55 and achieving a highest score of 152. His bowling, while not his primary focus, yielded 132 wickets at an average of 25.56, showcasing his all-round capabilities on the field. His performance during the 1882 season, which included several key innings, solidified his reputation as an integral part of the Lancashire side.
Arthur Ridley’s legacy is marked by his contributions to 19th-century cricket and his influence on the development of the sport in the North of England. After retiring from competitive play, he remained involved in cricket, mentoring young players and contributing to the development of local clubs. Ridley's commitment to fostering talent and passion for the game is remembered as a vital part of his enduring impact on English cricket.