The 1980 English cricket season demonstrated that the West Indies cricket team had now consolidated itself as a formidable team, producing the most notable individual performances in winning the summer's Test series 1–0, though rain limited the opportunity of either side to win the remaining four test matches. A single Test was additionally played between England and Australia, to commemorate the centenary of the first Test played in England. The Ashes were not at stake, though the point proved moot since the match was drawn. It was the 58th test series between the two sides.
The County Championship was won by Middlesex.
England was outplayed by West Indies and the margin would have been greater than 1–0 but for the weather. West Indies excelled in batting and fast bowling with Viv Richards, Desmond Haynes, Joel Garner, Andy Roberts and Michael Holding their standout performers. England's best player was Peter Willey who scored a fine century at The Oval.
Allan Lamb of Northamptonshire CCC topped the averages with 1797 runs @ 66.55.
Other leading batsmen were Kepler Wessels and Peter Kirsten who both averaged over 60.
Joel Garner of West Indies led the averages 13.93 and 49 wickets but the outstanding bowler of the season was Robin Jackman who took 121 wickets @ 15.40.