Vale - Alan Duffus

Veterans Cricket Victoria is saddened to inform members of the passing of Alan Duffus.

Alan was a foundation member of VCV and a great ally of John Hammer. When John advertised for expressions of interest for players in the inaugural Over 60s match in January 2003, it was Alan Duffus who coordinated the North of the Yarra team. Alan captained the team against John’s South of the Yarra team. Alan played for Yarra North in the next two annual matches making 34 no and 30 no in the victorious side.

In February 2005, Victoria Over 60 Circlet Association was formed with Alan being appointed the first Treasurer.

In March 2005, Alan captained Victoria in the first interstate Over 60s match against NSW. NSW won although Alan made 20 retired. He then captained Victoria in an interstate match against Tasmania played in Launceston in November 2005 and again against NSW in Feb. 2006.

Alan continued on as VOSCA Treasurer and was elected as VOSCA’s second Life member (after John Hammer). After handing over the Treasurer’s position to Graham Cuddon, Alan served on the Fixtures Committee but importantly, agreed to become VOSCA’s Auditor. He served as Auditor until 2020 and his diligence and advice was much appreciated.

In November 2017, Alan returned to the crease, playing in what was then the ‘World’s Oldest Cricket match’ held at Narre Warren and filmed by Channel 9. The average age of Alan’s team was 78.9 years.    

Alan Duffus was VCV’s first Treasurer and first captain and made a wonderful contribution to Veterans cricket, both on and off the field.

We will be forever grateful to Alan and fondly remember him.