William Arundell made one appearance for the South Wales CC in 1864 whilst training to become a clerk in Holy Orders at Oxford University. Indeed, it was through his student friendships that he was invited to play in a the one-day friendly against a scratch eleven comprising members of Cheltenham CC and augmented by guests from Gloucester CC at the Hales Road ground. Opening the batting he made a single in what roved to be his one and only innings for the Club.
The son of the Rector of Cheriton Fitzpaine, William attended Oundle School, Cheltenham College and Exeter College, Oxford. A disciple of Muscular Christianity, William was a talented cricketer and made his debut for Devon in 1861 besides taking part in the various Trial matches at Oxford during his time in residence, in addition to play for the University against Oxfordshire in 1864.
After being ordained in 1865, William acted as Curate of Huntspill until 1872 before moving to Chelford in Cheshire in 1872 during which time he also played for the Gentlemen of Cheshire. It was, though, only a brief stay in the north-west as the following Autumn William succeeded his father as Rector of Cheriton Fistzpaine.
He continued to appear for Devon until 1885 and besides being a playing member of the MCC, Rev. Arundell played cricket for Tiverton, Exeter and Teignbridge. His son Toby, who also entered the Church, played Minor County cricket for Dorset from 1905 until 1912, besides playing for Devon in 1913.
ARUNDELL, Rev. William Henry
Born – Cheriton Fitzpaine, 4 May 1842.
Died – Bournemouth, 29 November 1912.