Ian Smith, popularly known as ‘Chief’, had been Watford Town CC’s first-team scorer for nearly 40 years and following the Hornets home and away for even longer.
Ian Smith in Watford Town’s scorebox at Woodside, his ‘second home’ (Image: Supplied) Ian was admitted to hospital in July and was still in Watford General when he suffered a heart attack on Saturday.
Club chairman Richard Bayliss described Ian as a “Mr Reliable” in the ever-changing world of club cricket.
“Chief was an essential member of our support team for Watford Town Firsts and will be very difficult to replace,” Richard said. “His presence will be missed, both on and off the field.”
After learning of Ian’s passing that morning, the Watford Town players went into Saturday’s vital Herts Cricket League Division Two B match with Eversholt in shock.
However, they paid tribute to their scorer by securing a two-wicket victory to move them out of the relegation zone with two games of the season remaining.
A statement on Watford Town’s Facebook page described Chief as the “heartbeat of the club”.
“His dedication, humour, and unwavering support made him a true friend to everyone,” it read. A proud Watford supporter since 1977, his love for the game shone through in everything he did.
“The club won’t be the same without him, but his legacy and passion will live on in every match we play.”