CHRISTOPHER JAMES LEA who has died in his native city of Birmingham, was a fine all round sportsman during his four years at Trinity College, Dublin (Dublin University) between 1958 and 1962.
Chris Lea was in the Ist XI for four seasons as a forcing right hand batsman, strong on the off side, who often opened the innings but was probably more at home at 3 or 4.
He made four half centuries in competitive matches for the University, two in each of the 1960 and 1962 seasons, but, arguably, his best innings was a seemingly meagre 25 against the South African XI in 1961. The hosts were swamped in this match, only three batsmen reaching double figures against an attack made up of first class and future Test players.
Chris was also an excellent rugby player at centre, full back and, more occasionally, stand off.
He was proud to have a rare double to his name, having been a member of the University XV which had beaten St Mary's in the Cup Final of 1960 and of the XI which defeated Railway Union by two wickets in the Cup Final of 1961.
Educated at Solihull School, where his form had gained him a place in the Warwickshire Schools XI for which his future University team-mate Charlie Mulraine also played, he went to Cambridge for a year after graduating from Trinity and was considered somewhat unlucky to miss a rugby blue.
In later years he captained Warwickshire in the Over 50s County Championship.
Having always enjoyed the social life to the full at University, he was said to have found it difficult to return, on post match Saturday nights, to his College rooms from venues such as Sydney Parade and Castle Avenue.
He became a highly respected Headmaster, first in Portugal and later in Dorset.
On a personal note I well recall as a nervous eighteen year old scorer, when venturing into the heady world of the Ist XI, all of whom were several years older than I was, that Chris was one of those who by his kindness and friendliness, went out of his way to ensure that I felt part of the side.
He is survived by his wife, son, daughter and five grandchildren, to whom all who knew him will wish to extend their sympathy.
Edward Liddle
Copyright: Cover Point
