‘Townshend was a gentleman on and off the field’

fraternity.

Townshend died in Bulawayo last Saturday following a battle against cancer of the bones and was buried yesterday. The ZC chairman yesterday said the game had lost one of its most loyal and dedicated members who had a passion for the game, even during the difficult times of weak health.

“‘Dobbo’, as he was affectionately called, was a gentleman on and off the field of play and his death is a great loss to cricket in Zimbabwe, moreso because of the great work he was doing as an avid collector of cricket publications and memorabilia, making his house a stop-over of choice for all lovers of the game — local and visiting.

“That Derrick loved the game was not in doubt and we all saw him turn up at Queens Sports Club during the Bangladesh tour in May, even though he was visibly in some distress.

“We pray that the family will find the courage and solace to carry on during this very trying time in their lives,” said Chingoka.

Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, on the 19th of April 1944, Townshend was a middle-order batsman and spin bowler who rose to play for the then Rhodesia from 1966 to 1969.

A national team player late in the 1960s and later Matabeleland Cricket Association President, Townsend was brother to another international, Trevor John Townshend, and the father of Matthew, who played for Matabeleland and the Zimbabwe Cricket Academy.

On retirement, he became a provincial match referee. Townshend also held other posts such as provincial selector and national team manager.
He was president of the Matabeleland Cricket Association from 2006 to 2007.