Worcestershire Cricket Board

It is with deep sadness that the Worcestershire Cricket Foundation shares the passing of Dave Collins. He passed away on Monday evening at the care home where he had been residing for the past eighteen months. Prior to his time in the care home, Dave had been living with dementia.

Dave began his cricket career as a schoolboy at Stourbridge Cricket Club in the early 1960s. From 1965 onwards, he served as the first team wicketkeeper and played alongside some of the best Test Match players, including Glenn Turner in 1967 and Imran Khan in 1971 and 1972. Over a span of 30 years, Dave served the club as a player, captain, treasurer, and coach, making significant contributions in each role.

As a coach, Dave played a key role in developing several Stourbridge players who went on to become professional cricketers in the 1980s, including David Banks, Philip Whitticase, Jonathan Wright, Stuart Lampitt, Chris Tolley, and Gavin Haynes. He was instrumental in the club's many successes, including winning the National Knock Out in 1986, the triple Birmingham and District League Championships in 1987, and the Championship again in 1989.

Dave's contributions to Worcestershire cricket and coach education were even more significant. As the under-19 coach for Worcestershire from 1983 onwards, he helped many players, and his personal highlight was winning the Oxford Festival. His Worcestershire representative teams achieved unparalleled success, and his assistant coaches, including Bernard Rowley, Keith Wilkinson, and Tony Lea, were all outstanding Birmingham League players who held Dave in high regard.

Dave's organisation of coach education courses and his passion and knowledge of the course content led to over a thousand candidates qualifying via the courses he ran in Worcestershire and across the Midlands. His respect in the field led to him being elected Chair of the ECB Midlands Regional Coaching organization.

Although Dave left Stourbridge in the 1990s for a brief stint as 2nd XI captain and coach at West Bromwich Dartmouth, he later returned. He then coached at King Edwards School Birmingham for fourteen years and concluded his club coaching with a successful period at Himley Cricket Club.

Dave's immense contributions to the recreational game of cricket will be sorely missed by all. However, his legacy and memory will always be remembered. Our thoughts and best wishes go out to all close family and friends during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Dave. Thank you for your considerable efforts and memories.