John Wisden was a fine all-rounder who played first-class cricket in England in the mid 1800s.

Wisden, born on this day in 1826, was a fine all-rounder and was capable of bowling sharp outswingers and enjoyed immense success playing for teams like Sussex, Kent and Middlesex.

In all, Wisden took 1,109 wickets in 186 matches after nearly 18 seasons, including 111 five-wicket hauls.

But, as you must have realised by his name, Wisden created a bigger impact with his writing.

He retired from cricket in 1863 at the relatively early age of 37 as a result of rheumatism. The very next year, he published a book that became the game’s most revered annual.

The Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack has been published every year since 1864.

Sadly, Wisden’s health deteriorated rapidly and he passed away in 1884.

More sport celebrities birthdays on this day:

1966: John Bentley, former winger who has represented England in both codes (50).

1979: John Carew, former West Ham, Aston Villa and Norway striker (37).

1986: Pragyan Ojha, India left-arm spinner who has taken 113 wickets in 24 Tests (30).

1989: Ben Youngs, Leicester Tigers and England scrum-half (27).