The NZCPA and our members are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our Patron Barry Sinclair (MNZM).
Barry has been stalwart of cricket in New Zealand for many years, starting out as a batsman for Rongotai College, Kilbirnie CC, Wellington and ultimately New Zealand. Not only a respected Test captain, but he was also a genuine leader off the field where his dedication to fitness and training was second to none. Barry was the epitome for professionalism in an amateur era.
NZCPA Chair, and fellow Rongotai College and Wellington Cricket alumni, Scott Weenink said “Barry was an inspiration to so many in the game and his passing is a huge loss, not just for the NZCPA and our members, but for all cricket supporters in New Zealand”.
“We have been fortunate to have Barry serve as our inaugural Patron since 2010 where he has set the standard for service to the game that remains a benchmark for all of us to emulate” said Weenink.
Born in 1936 Barry was first selected for Wellington in 1953 as an 18-year-old. He finished his career having played 118 First Class games for Wellington, scored six centuries, thirty-eight 50's, and had an average of 32.87.
Barry made his Test debut in 1963 and played 21 Tests with an average of 29.43. Along the way Barry scored three Test centuries, his highest 138 against South Africa at Eden Park in 1964. He also scored 130 against Pakistan at Lahore in 1965, and captained New Zealand in three official Test matches.
Heath Mills, NZCPA Chief Executive said “we were all very sad to hear of Barry’s passing this morning. We have been blessed to have him involved with the NZCPA for so many years.
“Barry was one of the first past players to sign up to our organisation and loved being involved and helping the current players achieve a better environment in the game.
“We are going to miss him greatly,” said Mills.
Barry was equally committed to serving his local club North Shore Cricket Club where he served as Patron since 2004, showing the same compassion and commitment as he did when advocating the growth of the NZCPA’s past player membership.
The game is in a much better place because of Barry’s efforts, and he will be sorely missed. Our thoughts and love go out to his family, friends and the wider cricket community at this time.