Former England captain and cricket boss Donald Carr has died at the age of 89.

Mr Carr, who played for Radlett, made almost 20,000 first-class runs in a 23-year career, was Derbyshire captain between 1955 and 1962 and a Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1960.

The MCC flag was at half-mast on Sunday, during England’s Test against Sri Lanka at Lord’s, as a mark of respect.

According to his friend Tony Johnson, the president of Radlett Cricket Club, Mr Carr was one of the last distinguished amateurs in the first-class game.

After his playing career, Mr Carr’s primary impact was as a senior cricket administrator, first as assistant secretary of Marylebone Cricket Club from 1962 until 1974.

He then worked as secretary of the Test and County Cricket Board (TCCB) until his retirement in 1986.

Mr Carr, who died peacefully at home on Saturday, was the vice president at Radlett Cricket Club and he started his three seasons at the club in 1985 at the age of 48.

The cricketer was already well-known at the club having visited the Cobden Hill ground regularly with Repton Pilgrims and he played golf at Porter’s Park Golf Club.

Mr Johnson said: “He was a gentleman both on and off the field and the world of cricket has sadly lost a man who made a real difference during times of change in our sport.

“He was a top order batsman, a fine slip fielder and a left arm spinner who contributed as a genuine all-rounder.

“Donald only played a dozen or so matches at Radlett and the club benefited from his cheerful and thoughtful presence during his time with us.”

Mr Johnson remembered one match in 1975 against Eastcote where Mr Carr was the key player in the match.

He said: “Radlett batted first and after an early collapse, Donald rescued the day with an innings of 65, despite receiving a gash to his face from a top edged sweep.

“Eastcote had a strong batting line-up and were coasting to victory before Donald came on to bowl and brought about a collapse with him finishing with eight for 32.”

Mr Carr, along with his wife Stella and his son John, supported the Radlett Cricket Club over the last 40 years.

A Thanksgiving Service will be held at Christ Church in Radlett on Wednesday, June 22 at 3pm.