John Oscroft was the first of the Oscroft clan to come to prominence on the cricket field.
Born in Arnold in 1807 he made his Nottingham debut in 1834 in major matches, though he had played v Leicester in 1829. In his debut match, against Cambridge Twon Club, he was caught in the second innings by a substitute fielder with the unlikely name of Israel Haggis!
His final match was not until 1848, but between 1835 and 1841 he is absent. Originally a framework-knitter he became a publican and died of dysentery in 1857.
For some 10 seasons he held professional engagements in various parts of the country including Edinburgh.
John Thomas Oscroft is the son of John's eldest brother.
November 2023
Nottinghamshire First-Class Number: 32