Colin Milburn (23 October 1941 – 28 February 1990)[1] was an English cricketer, who played in nine Test matches for England, before an accident led to the loss of much of his sight and prompted his retirement.
Cricker writer Colin Bateman commented, "he was a clean, natural hitter of the ball who had an infectious zest for the game and life".
The young Colin showed exceptional talent at the game, making his first-team debut at the age of thirteen.
By 1963 he was being talked about for the England team, but an indifferent game for Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) against Frank Worrell's West Indians meant he was passed over.
He also taught PE during the off season at Cherry Orchard SM School in Northampton, just about a mile from the site of his later accident.
Milburn had a reputation as an all-or-nothing batsman, sparkling centuries alternating with indifferent scores, but by 1966 he had forced himself back into the Test reckoning.
[1] He played a Test against India and against Pakistan in 1967, and was selected to tour the West Indies in the winter, where he was much more successful off the field than on.
[1] Taking as an example the Nawab of Pataudi, who had resumed his career after suffering eye damage, Milburn harboured thoughts of a comeback.
Milburn continued in league cricket, and went into the world of coaching youngsters, after dinner speaking, public appearances and radio commentary.