Peter Michael Walker, MBE (17 February 1936 – 5 April 2020) was an English cricketer best known as a slow left-arm orthodox spinner and dependable lower-order batsman. He earned three Test caps for England during the 1960 series in South Africa and was a prominent figure in county cricket for Glamorgan. Born in Clifton, Bristol, Walker combined accuracy and subtle variation to establish himself as a respected practitioner of classical left-arm spin.

Playing style and role

Walker bowled slow left-arm orthodox spin, relying on flight, accuracy and subtle change of pace rather than big turn. As a batsman he usually contributed useful runs down the order and was valued for his temperament and cricketing intelligence. Contemporary accounts describe him as a team player whose skill set was particularly effective in the county game and on helpful pitches.

Career overview

Although he made only three appearances for England—on the tour of South Africa in 1960—Walker enjoyed a long and steady county career with Glamorgan, where he was a regular member of the side for many seasons. His county performances brought him national recognition and selection for the England side during that tour. After his playing days he remained associated with the sport in various capacities, contributing experience and knowledge to subsequent generations.

Notable facts

  • Full name: Peter Michael Walker; honoured with the MBE for his services to cricket.
  • International: three Test matches for England (1960, South Africa series).
  • County: long-serving player for Glamorgan, respected by teammates and opponents alike.
  • Legacy: remembered for steady bowling, competence with the bat and continued involvement in cricket after retirement.

Walker was born in Clifton, Bristol, and his death on 5 April 2020, aged 84, was reported as resulting from a stroke. Obituaries and tributes at the time highlighted his contribution to Glamorgan and the esteem in which he was held across English cricket.

Further reading and sources

For profiles, match lists and contemporary reports consult cricket archives and biographies: career profile and bio, national team records, match statistics, England appearance summary, Test match details, 1960 South Africa tour accounts, Glamorgan county information, and local records for his birthplace at Clifton, Bristol references.