Hobbs was an English professional cricketer who played for Surrey from 1905 to 1934 and for England in 61 Test matches between 1908 and 1930.
Born in a poor family in 1882, Hobbs wished from an early age to pursue a career in cricket. His early batting was undistinguished, but a sudden improvement in 1901 brought him to the attention of local teams. In 1903 he joined Surrey.
His reputation grew after joining Surrey. On his first-class debut he scored 88 and a century in his next game.
Over the following seasons, he established himself as a successful county player and in 1908 made his Test debut for England, scoring 83 in his first innings.