Alma 'Champ' Hunt

Achievements:

• First Player to Score Half Centuries in Both Innings of Cup Match: 1931

• Cup Match Hat Trick: 1932

• Professional Player at Aberdeenshire Cricket Club: 1934-1947

• Leading Bowler and Batsman in Scotland: 1935

• Scotland vs. Australia First-Class Match Player: 1928

Biography:

Alma 'Champ' Hunt is a name synonymous with excellence in Bermuda cricket. Born into humble beginnings, Hunt was one of five brothers who represented Somerset in Cup Match. His journey in cricket began at the age of 16, when he played his first Cup Match in 1927. However, it was in 1931 that Hunt made his mark, becoming the first player to score half centuries in both innings, setting a new aggregate record with a total of 147 runs. A year later, his right-arm medium pace bowling earned him a Cup Match hat trick.

In 1933, Hunt's talent was recognized beyond Bermuda, as he was invited to trials for the West Indies team—the only Bermudian ever to receive such an invitation. Despite a stellar performance, where he took eight wickets for 46 runs and scored a total of 101 in two trials, Hunt was controversially not selected. He was informed that Bermuda's exclusion from the West Indies region and the selection politics were the reasons.

Following this disappointment, a Scottish surgeon at the Royal Naval Hospital offered Hunt an opportunity to play cricket in Scotland. After some persuasion from his father, Hunt moved to Scotland and became the professional at Aberdeenshire Cricket Club in 1934. He quickly established himself, leading both in bowling and batting in 1935. His outstanding performances included a remarkable match against West Lothian, where he bowled them out for 48 with a dazzling 7-11 and then single-handedly surpassed their score with a 49 not out.

World War II interrupted Hunt's burgeoning career in Scotland, but it allowed him to display his prowess at home. One of his most memorable achievements was scoring 104 runs in a grueling Cup Match, contributing significantly to his team's total. Hunt finished his Cup Match career with 762 runs and likely would have been the first to reach 1,000 runs if not for his eight seasons abroad.

Hunt returned to Scotland in 1946, leading his club to its first county championship in 24 years with six half centuries and a high score of 127. He retired the following year, leaving a legacy of excellence and sportsmanship. The Aberdeenshire Cricket Club bid him farewell with great sadness, noting his contributions as both a cricketer and a gentleman.

Legacy:

Alma 'Champ' Hunt's cricket career is a testament to his skill, determination, and character. He is remembered not only for his exceptional performances on the field but also for his sportsmanship and humility. Sportscaster CV Jim Woolridge aptly summarized Hunt's impact, stating, "When you think in terms of great players of this past century, Champ Hunt's name will be at the top." Hunt's legacy continues to inspire future generations of Bermudian cricketers, embodying what Bermuda cricket was and should aspire to be.