He, more than any other player, was responsible for the elevation of Worcestershire to first-class status. His all round ability (18 first-class centuries, and over 1,000 county wickets) helped make his adopted county strong enough to take on any opponent.

Arnold bowled at medium pac or faster, varying pace well, and moving the ball off the wicket. He was tall, and used all his height with an upright delivery, developing lift, particularly on rain-affected wickets where his bowling was very effective. He was one of the early exponents of swing bowling, following the example of Hirst, with an excellent away-swinger. He had a solid defence, and a range of powerful strokes, although his batting was not seen at its best in Tests. He usually fielded in the slips, where he had a safe pair of hands.

(Article: Copyright © 2003 Dave Liverman)