William Ayling

William Ayling was an English cricketer who played in 22 important matches between 1800 and 1810.
Ayling was born in 1766 at Cocking in Sussex, the son of Robert and Mary Ayling. He was a shoemaker and moved to Bromley in Kent in the early years of the 19th century. He made his debut for England against Surrey county [cricket team (pre-1846)|Surrey] in August 1800 at Lord's Old Ground, and went on to play for a variety of teams, most frequently in matches for England. He played for the Players in the first two Gentlemen v Players matches in 1806 and made one appearance in a important match for Kent [county cricket team (pre-1843)|Kent] against England at Bowman's Lodge in 1806.
Playing more frequently for Kent in non-important matches, including in odds matches, Ayling is known to have played until 1815, playing for club teams including Woolwich and Prince's Plain Club. His batting technique was unusual. He held the bat in one hand until just prior to hitting the ball, and stood square on to the bowler.
Ayling died at Bromley in October 1826. It is possible that he was the brother of the Robert Ayling who played two important matches for Kent in 1796.