A British cricketer has been killed alongside another man in a car crash in New Zealand. Jamie Spence, 28, from Yorkshire, was involved in a two-vehicle collision near Kinleith on the North Island on April 29. Spence, alongside French national Raphael Jean-Gabriel Roellinger, 22, tragically died in the crash.
His cricket club, Hull Strikers, paid tribute to their 'energetic and passionate' player in a tribute, as they lined up for a match today without their teammate. In the morning after his death, a spokesperson for the club wrote: 'It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the devastating news of the passing of our own Jamie Spence this morning.'
'A true member of the Strikers family from the very beginning, Jamie was our youngest, yet one of the most energetic, fun-loving, and passionate souls on and off the field. His smile, his spirit, and his love for the game brought life to our club. A true Striker at heart.'
'His love for this club ran so deep that he carried it with him always — tattooed on his arm, a mark of pride and belonging that showed just how much the Strikers meant to him.'
They added: 'We are all absolutely gutted and lost for words. We were looking forward to sharing the ground with you again next week… it doesn’t feel real. Stay strong, champ, on the other side. You will always be a part of us.'
'Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Jon, Angie and the entire family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. You will forever be missed, but never forgotten.'
The club continued to play last Monday with 10 men and beat Hessle CC by seven runs. Spence's father Jon was in attendance as the team dedicated their win to their teammate. They wrote: 'Today’s win means more than just cricket.'
'We took the field with heavy hearts, playing with 10 men after the heartbreaking loss of our teammate and brother Jamie, who was part of this very squad just days ago. Being taken from us so suddenly in a tragic accident has left a void that can never truly be filled.'
'He wasn’t just a player — he was one of the biggest supporters of this club, always bringing energy, passion, and a smile that lifted everyone around him. That spirit was with us today in every run, every wicket, and every moment on the field.'
'A special moment for us all was seeing his dad Jon come down to support the team today — a true reflection of the bond and family spirit this club stands for. It meant more than words can say.'
'This victory is for you. There is no better tribute than giving everything out there, just like you always did. You’ll always be a part of this team. Forever a Striker.'
The Foreign Office has been contacted for comment.
