Ray Smith (cricketer)

Smith was a prominent all-rounder in the post-war Essex cricket team, alongside his cousin Peter.^[2] He was known for his dynamic bowling, often initiating the attack with rapid in-swingers, and then switching to less effective off-breaks.^[2] Smith's batting was sporadically powerful, with three of his eight first-class centuries recorded as the fastest in their respective seasons.^[2] Notably harsh on off-spinners, he once left bowler Jim Laker exasperated.^[2] Contrary to fast-bowling norms, Smith's appeals were delivered in a soft, aristocratic voice.^[2]

Retiring in 1956, he missed the introduction of one-day cricket but had an accomplished career as a coach at Felsted and ran a restaurant outside Birmingham.^[2] His final home match saw Essex secure its first victory over Yorkshire since the war, with Smith scoring the winning runs.^[2]

• Ray Smith at ESPNcricinfo
• Ray Smith at CricketArchive (subscription required)