Nigel 'Chopper' Hazel

Achievements:

• First Man to Amass 2,000 Runs in a Season in Scottish Cricket: Set this historic record, demonstrating his extraordinary proficiency with the bat.

• 24,000 Runs in Scotland: By the end of his career, Hazel accumulated over 24,000 runs in Scottish cricket.

• Cup Match Star (1940-1947): Left an indelible mark with his rapid scoring and powerful hitting for Somerset.

• Record Partnerships: Formed significant partnerships in Cup Match, including a sixth-wicket record of 101 runs with Lloyd Simmons in 1942 and an unbeaten 123 with Austin Simons in 1947.

• Professional at Aberdeenshire: Succeeded Alma 'Champ' Hunt and played a key role in the club's championships in 1948 and 1949.

• Prolific Scorer: Known for his spectacular batting, including memorable matches with sixes clearing boundaries and houses.

• Impressive Bowling: Took numerous wickets in critical matches, showcasing his all-rounder abilities.

Biography:

Nigel 'Chopper' Hazel was a cricketing prodigy whose talent and achievements resonated both in Bermuda and Scotland. Born with an innate ability for both batting and bowling, Hazel's career took off early. Initially, he was a gifted bowler, but his exceptional batting skills soon became his hallmark, especially in Cup Match where he left an unforgettable legacy.

Hazel's cricket journey began in earnest when Dorothy Eve introduced him to competitive cricket during his time with the Cub Scouts. His father and the neighborhood boys also played pivotal roles in his early development. Hazel's career flourished at Warwick Workmen's Club, with brief stints at Southampton Rangers and St. George's Cricket Club. Despite being directed towards Somerset, he found a better opportunity with St. George's, where he made his mark in Cup Match from 1940 to 1947.

In Cup Match, Hazel quickly earned a reputation for his aggressive batting, earning him a spot among the 12 greatest players for Somerset in the 1991 Cup Match program. His first innings saw him notch an unbeaten 12 runs, which he improved upon each following year. In 1943, he scored a remarkable 99 runs, including nine sixes and six fours. His partnership with Lloyd Simmons in 1942 and Austin Simons in 1947 were highlights of his Cup Match career.

In 1948, Hazel moved to Scotland to succeed his cousin, Alma 'Champ' Hunt, as the professional at Aberdeenshire. His impact was immediate and profound. He became the first man in Scottish cricket history to score 2,000 runs in a season and accumulated over 24,000 runs by the time he retired. Hazel's exploits on the field were legendary, with club records describing his towering sixes and match-winning performances. He played a crucial role in Aberdeenshire's county championships in 1948 and 1949, topping batting averages and excelling in bowling.

In 1955, Hazel moved to Swathmore Cricket Club, where he continued to dominate until his retirement in 1973. His career was marked by numerous high-scoring innings and impressive bowling spells, solidifying his status as a cricketing legend in both Bermuda and Scotland.

Legacy:

Nigel 'Chopper' Hazel's legacy is one of extraordinary talent and prolific achievements. His records in Scottish cricket and his impact on Cup Match in Bermuda are testaments to his skill and dedication. Hazel's ability to excel as both a batsman and a bowler made him a formidable all-rounder. His contributions to cricket have left an indelible mark, inspiring future generations of cricketers in Bermuda and Scotland.

Hazel's career is a shining example of how passion, dedication, and talent can lead to greatness. His story continues to be a source of pride and inspiration, highlighting the rich history of cricket in Bermuda and the lasting impact of its players on the international stage.

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