Albert Moss

Who was Albert Moss?

Albert Edward Moss was a cricketer: a fast bowler who had a short first-class career of just four games, all in 1889-90, but who nevertheless holds a unique record: he is the only man to have taken all ten wickets in an innings in an 11-a-side match on his first-class debut.

Albert Moss was born in Hugglescote, Coalville, in Leicestershire, where his family lived at 32 Station Street. Moss moved to New Zealand after his father succumbed to tuberculosis, hoping to avoid sharing his fate. He made his debut for Canterbury against Wellington at Christchurch on 27 December 1889, and the following day took 10-28 in 21.3 six-ball overs as Wellington were dismissed for 71; he also claimed three wickets in the second innings as Canterbury won by 33 runs. His first-innings achievement remains the only instance of ten wickets in an innings in New Zealand. Moss took great pride in his achievement, especially as the ball was mounted with a plaque and presented to him by his cricket club, Lancaster Park C.C.

He took thirteen wickets in his next three matches between January and March 1890, and shortly afterwards stood for the only time as an umpire.