Laurelvale Cricket Club have mourned the passing of one of their “all-time greats” and integral member, Brian Wylie.
Brian – from Mullavilly – joined the club back in 1968 and in the 1970s and 1980s was a member of the 1st XI team.
Detailing Brian’s incredible achievements over the years, a representative for the club said: “In his time he scored 5934 runs, the 5th highest ever tally for the 1st XI.
“His highest score of 113 came against Woodvale in 1984, showing his calibre against one of the best teams in the country at the time.”
“Like all greats,” the club say that Brian’s involvement with cricket didn’t end when his time with the 1st XI team ended in the 1990s.
Instead, he took up a leadership role with the 2nd XI, “guiding young players (including son Alan) at the other end of their cricketing journeys, ensuring the future of the Club.”
They add: “He wasn’t just there as a spectator though, as another century came against Church of Ireland Young Men’s Society (CIYMS) in 1994.”
Regarding Brian as a “Laurelvale legend”, they say he will be greatly missed by all at the club.
Speaking to Brian’s talent as a cricketer, one person said: “I had the pleasure of playing cricket with Brian for many years.
“As a player he was one of the best to ever play for the Vale. Anything pitched up, on or around leg stump would be effortlessly despatched to the boundary.
“He made playing cricket great fun both on and off the pitch. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him. My condolences to the family.”
Another added: “Very sad news. A true Laurelvale legend and an even better human being. Always great to play against – no quarter asked or given but always a true sportsman.
“Condolences to his family and Laurelvale Cricket Club.”
Brian passed away on Thursday (June 26) in hospital.
A death notice described him as the beloved husband of Doris, cherished father of Mandy and Alan, Granda to Ryan, Chloe, Dylan, Adam, Jamie and the late Amy and brother to Dorothy, Margaret, Edith, Norma, Phyllis and the late Bertie, Edgar, Edmund, and Irene.
A Service of Thanksgiving for Brian’s life will be held on Sunday June 29, 2025 at 2.30pm in Mullavilly Parish Church, followed by a private family committal.
