Former Warwickshire cricketer Keith Piper dies aged 56
Piper was known for playing a pivotal role in the club's 1994 treble win
Former Warwickshire cricketer Keith Piper has died at the age of 56.
Piper had a 16-year career with the Bears, and played a significant role in the team's successful 1994 treble-winning season.
His cricket journey with Warwickshire began in 1989, quickly marking him as a vital player during the club's prosperous era in the 1990s.
Piper not only demonstrated exceptional skills as a wicketkeeper but also scored runs at crucial times during the success of the club
In 1994, he reached his highest First Class score of 116 not out, forming an unbeaten partnership of 322 runs with Brian Lara, who set a world record score of 501*.
That same season, Piper achieved 66 dismissals, including seven catches in an innings against Essex, setting and then equalling his own county record the very next week.
At the end of that season Piper was selected for the England A tour of India. He participated in two such tours during his career.
The following season, Piper was a key player in Warwickshire's double victory in 1995, claiming both the County Championship and the NatWest Trophy.
After retiring in 2005, Piper served as the Second XI coach until 2008. He later rejoined the cricket scene as part of Leicestershire's coaching team during 2015-2016.
In a statement Warwickshire said "everyone at Warwickshire sends their condolences to Keith’s family and friends. Once a Bear, Always a Bear."
The club also described Piper as "A keeper with outstanding natural talents."