William Gilbert Grace (18 July 1848 – 23 October 1915) was an English cricketer who is widely held to have been one of the sport's all-time greatest players. Always known by his initials as "W. G.", his first-class career spanned a record-equalling 44 seasons from 1865 to 1908. Test cricket originated during his career, and he represented England in 22 matches from 1880 to 1899. In domestic cricket, he was mostly associated with Gloucestershire, the Gentlemen, Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), and the United South of England Eleven (USEE).
Right-handed as both a batsman and bowler, Grace was an outstanding all-rounder who excelled in all the essential disciplines of batting, bowling, and fielding. It is, however, for his batting that he is most renowned, and he is widely regarded as the originator of modern batsmanship. He dominated the sport throughout his career, and his technical innovations and immense influence left a lasting legacy. Usually opening the innings, he was especially admired for his complete command of every stroke, and contemporary reviewers frequently described his level of expertise as unparalleled.