Ex-goalkeeper Martyn savours England cricket call
Ex-Goalkeeper Martyn Enjoys Cricket Call
Ex goalkeeper Martyn savours England cricket – Nigel Martyn, a former professional footballer with a career that stretched over almost two decades, is now eyeing a new chapter in the sport he has always cherished. The idea of representing England in both football and cricket simultaneously evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of an era defined by cigarette cards, blazers, and the subtle scent of Brylcreem. Legends like Denis Compton, CB Fry, and Tip Foster once held this unique distinction, with only 12 athletes managing to achieve dual international status. Arthur Milton, who played six Test matches for England in cricket, marked the last such occurrence in 1958—seven years after earning his solitary football cap against Austria.
From Football to Cricket: A New Legacy
Among the modern contenders for this rare honor is Martyn, a goalkeeper who has played for the Three Lions in football. At 59, he is preparing to step onto the cricket field, a move that could see him join the ranks of historical figures who bridged the gap between two sports. Though he may have aged slightly, the thrill of dual representation remains undimmed. “It’s pretty special,” Martyn shared with BBC Sport. “As a professional, I couldn’t play cricket during the summer because it might risk breaking fingers or causing injury. But after retiring with a stress fracture on my ankle, I realized I still had the potential to keep going.”
Martyn’s transition from football to cricket began in 2011, when he received the green light to compete again. His journey into cricket is not just a personal pursuit but a testament to the enduring appeal of the game. Currently, he plays for Scarcroft CC, a club located just outside Leeds, and has even been part of a notable partnership with fellow ex-England goalkeeper Paul Robinson. The duo helped Knaresborough CC reach the North Yorkshire Premier Division, showcasing their ability to adapt and thrive in a different sport.
County Matches: A Long Journey Home
Martyn’s path to the England Over-60s squad was paved through county age-group matches for Cornwall. This commitment required him to undertake a 800-mile round trip from his Yorkshire home, a challenge he embraced with determination. “My good friend Sean Hooper, who captained the Cornwall Over-50s team, approached me six years ago about playing for the county,” he explained. “We had played together when I was part of the Cornwall Schools Under-15s team, and that connection led to my recommendation for the national squad.”
The journey was not without its hurdles. Despite his football pedigree, Martyn faced no special favor during his trials for England’s Over-60s team at Loughborough University. The process was rigorous, and his inclusion in the squad was a result of his performance in a recent intra-squad match. “The standard of batting and bowling is extremely high,” he noted. “Fielding is the area where it becomes tougher, but it’s amazing to see players in their 60s diving, sprinting, and throwing with such precision. It’s quite incredible to witness.”
A Passion That Never Fades
For Martyn, the joy of playing remains a driving force. “If you’re going to compete into your 60s and 70s, you’ve got to love it,” he said. “There’s a strong camaraderie among the players that keeps things fun and engaging.” His admiration for wicketkeepers like Alan Knott and Bob Taylor highlights his deep respect for the nuances of the game. “Being a goalkeeper and a wicketkeeper share similar skills—hand-eye coordination, quick reflexes, and the ability to react under pressure,” he added. “I’ve spent a lifetime dealing with round objects being thrown or kicked at me, so I’m pretty used to getting them in the right place most of the time.”
While Martyn’s football career included appearances at two World Cups—1998 and 2002—he never made it to the starting XI. His role as a backup to David Seaman meant he had to wait for his chance to shine. However, this experience has shaped his perspective on sports. “Football taught me resilience, but cricket offers a different kind of challenge,” he reflected. “It’s about adapting to a new rhythm and maintaining the same passion for competition.”
World Cup Aspirations and Future Goals
Martyn’s ambitions extend beyond the Over-60s squad. With the cricket World Cup in Canada set to begin shortly after his 60th birthday on 11 August, he is currently ineligible for the event. Yet, the prospect of making the final XI for a future World Cup remains a key target. “That would be great,” he said. “I trained with the two wicketkeepers selected for the tournament, and they’re both exceptional players. The competition pushes me to improve and stay at the top of my game.”
Though he is preparing for the challenge ahead, Martyn is also savoring the present. His return to cricket is not just about breaking records but about reconnecting with the sport’s traditions. “It’s not just about playing for England; it’s about being part of a legacy that spans generations,” he emphasized. “To represent your country in any sport is a privilege, and I’m honored to be considered for this.”
Martyn’s story is a reminder of how sports can transcend age and discipline. From the pitch of football to the cricket field, his journey reflects a lifelong dedication to the game. Whether it’s the thrill of goalkeeping or the camaraderie of wicketkeeping, he has found a way to keep his passion alive. As he continues to play, the possibility of achieving dual international status this summer could mark the beginning of a new era in his career—one that honors both the past and the future of cricket and football.
Despite the logistical demands of his cricket commitments, Martyn remains optimistic about the opportunities ahead. The long 800-mile drive to attend matches has become a part of his routine, but he sees it as a necessary sacrifice for his love of the game. “Being able to return home and see family is always a bonus,” he said. “It keeps things grounded and reminds me why I started playing in the first place.”
As Martyn prepares for the next phase of his journey, he is driven by a mix of nostalgia and ambition. The idea of joining a select group of athletes who have represented their countries in both football and cricket is a dream he never thought he’d pursue. Yet, with his skills and determination, it seems within reach. “I never imagined I’d be in this position,” he admitted. “But if I can still play, I’ll keep doing it as long as I can.”
Martyn’s dual career exemplifies the versatility of athletes who can excel in multiple sports. His football experience provided a foundation of discipline and resilience, while his cricket journey is a testament to his adaptability and love for the game. With the support of his teammates and the encouragement of his friends, he is ready to take on the challenge of representing England in cricket—a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come.