Matthew Hoggard

Matthew James Hoggard, born on December 31, 1976, in Pudsey, West Yorkshire, is a former English cricketer known for his right-arm fast-medium bowling and right-handed batting. He began his journey in first-class cricket in 1996 with his local club Pudsey Congs CC. Hoggard represented Yorkshire for thirteen years from 1996 to 2009 before moving to Leicestershire, where he served as captain between 2010 and 2013, concluding his domestic career in 2013. His early international career saw him debut for England in 2000, initially filling in for an injured Andy Caddick during the NatWest Series.

Hoggard’s international career was marked by significant achievements, including a successful tour of the West Indies in 2004 where he achieved the 34th hat-trick in Test cricket. He also played a crucial role in England’s 2005 Ashes series victory. Hoggard consistently performed as England’s principal orthodox swing bowler, often taking the new ball. He was ranked the 4th best Test match bowler globally in March 2006, the same year he was awarded an MBE for his contributions to cricket and named one of Wisden Cricketers of the Year. He also holds the distinction of being named PCA Young Player of the Year in 2000.

After retiring from professional cricket in September 2013, Hoggard transitioned into roles as a media personality, after-dinner speaker, and cricket pundit. He released a book, wrote a regular column for Cricinfo, and appeared on “Celebrity Masterchef” in August 2013. In January 2020, he joined Venatour as their Cricket Ambassador. Currently, he also serves as an assistant coach for the women’s T20 cricket team Loughborough Lightning, continuing his involvement in the sport.