South Yorkshire Times August 7, 1948
George Allen
A loud and confident shout of “How’s that?” went up at Mexboro’ on Monday, as S. Vickers snicked a ball to the safe hands of the Denaby wicketkeeper. And, as many batsmen have done in past years, Vickers trekked back to the pavilion, dismissed by Denaby’s captain, George Allen.
George is now 54 years of age, but Denaby have no worries about wicket-keeping when he’s with them. He intends to play as long as he is needed, although he says he’s just about ready for retiring. George was born in Derbyshire and has been cricketing for 40 years. He was with Langwith Colliery when they won the Bassetlaw League in 1928, and had nine years with Bullcroft before coming to Denaby, 17 years ago. He has been captain of the side for five years. His home is at 23, Montague Avenue, Conisbrough.
About Council cricket he says, “It isn’t as good as it was 15 years ago, but it is steadily improving.” Blames the war years for the lack of Council cricketers, but thinks that the coaching of youngsters is now telling its tale. “I think Jack Munden is one of the most promising batsmen playing.”
For the future? Perhaps we shall see George Allen in the role of coach next year at Denaby, and if he coaches as well as he coached Johnny Wardle there’s nothing for England to worry about.