David Capel dead aged 57: Former England and Northants all-rounder passes away after being diagnosed with brain tumour

FORMER England all-rounder David Capel has passed away aged 57.

Capel was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2018 and died at his home on Wednesday. 

Between 1987 and 1990 Capel played 15 Test matches and 23 One Day Internationals for England.

He also made a name for himself playing for his home county, Northants – with more than 500 appearances for them during his 17-year career.

Capel later became involved in the academy set up before becoming head coach in 2006 but was replaced six years later by David Ripley.

He then became the assistant coach of England women’s team in 2013.

Capel also had a brief spell as the coach of Bangladesh’s women’s team in 2016.

In a statement on the club’s website ECB Chief Executive Officer, Tom Harrison, said: “This is hugely shocking and sad news for the English Cricket family and particularly those connected with Northants CCC.

“David was one of the finest all-rounders of his era and spent an astonishing 33 years at Wantage Road.

“I had the privilege of playing with David, a hugely competitive and determined cricketer who was never beaten – an attitude he took into his battle with his illness.

“A complex and private man on the surface, a kind and gentle one to those who knew him well. I will miss his friendship.”

Capel was this year he was inducted into the Northants Hall of Fame. 

Former Northants captain and current player Alex Wakely Tweeted: “A brilliant, tough cricketer but more importantly, a lovely man.

“Capes had a huge impact on my career and many other players who came through the system. A true Northamptonshire legend.”

Ex-England international turned commentator Michael Vaughan wrote: “The cricketing family has lost another great man today … David Capel …

“A cricketer I really enjoyed & was always very kind with his advice to me as a young player in the 90s …”