Obituary.

NZ Truth, Issue 97, 27 April 1907, Page 3

Obituary.

I W. Blacklock.

One of the most familiar figures oiv the Basin Reserve was that «jf James William Blacklock who, as :i player first, then as ay spectator, took o. lively interest m all matters appertaining to the summer pastime. He was the eldest of four 'brothers, "Jimmy," Henry, Robert and Arthur,' all of whom— except the second named— has represented Wellington on the cricket field. No team from the Capital City, picked m the late seventies and early eighties, was complete without little "Jimmy." He was, at his test, a fine, free batsman, excelling m the cut and drive, but was even better known by his brilliant fielding at point. Without a doubt Jimmy was the finest local player we ever had m that position. He seemed to anticipate the stroke of the batsman, and would swoop down to take the ball almost from under the willow. Though not his highest score for Wellington, perhaps his best effort was against the second Australian team which came' round these parts, and was captained by Murdoch. The demon Spofforth and Palmer, on a wicket which suited them to a T, were playing said havoc with our local knights of the willow. On that occasion Jimmy rattled up 26 m fine style, ultimately falling a vLetim to a sensational left-handed catch by the demon, off his own, bowling. The total of the innings was only 68, and Wellington batted 22 men. Jim-mv was an active, well-kept man, and his demise* at the comparatively early age of 51, comes as a shock to his numerous friends. He is the fath&r of the two ■players, C. P. arid J:.?;, m the Old Boys' cricket ' and ' football teams, both of whom were chosen last year m Wellington rep. cricket combinations. Of the- four Blacklocks, whose names are so familiar to old-timers', three-r James, Harry and Bob— are now undt* the sod. It might be mentioned that Jimmy's cricketing experiences were with the old Star Club, which included m its ranks the Salmon Bros. (Bill, Jim and. lke 1 ), "Punch" Crowther, Fred Russell, Jack Lockett Billie Mason, Carpenter, Charlie Howard, and others whose names. I oa-rmot recall at the present moment. Jimmy was also intimately ' associated with the fortunes of the Midland Cricket Club for many years.' He was, I understand-, actively connected v/itili the formation of the Club, m conjunction with Billy McGirr, Feodore Kelling and others. The family of J.W.B. will have the sincere sympathy of all local sports m their sad bereavement. Peace to his ashes.