The Ashes 2009 – First Test – Day Two – England v Australia – Sophia Gardens. Australia’s Nathan Hauritz PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo
Nathan Hauritz burst onto the International Cricket scene receiving a call up to the Australian team as a 20 year old after making an early impression playing for Queensland and Australia at u-19 level where he played alongside the likes of Michael Clarke, Ed Cowan, Mitch Johnson, Shaun Marsh, Shane Watson and Andrew McDonald.
He went on to represent Australia in 17 Test Matches claiming 63 wickets with career best figures of 5-53. Nathan also played 58 ODI’s also picking up 63 wickets with best figures of 4-29.
Hauritz was also more than handy with the bat scoring three half centuries for Australia and had a highest First Class score of 146 for NSW against South Australia in 2010.
In this edition of the Cricket Library Podcast, we relive some highlights from Nathan’s career as well as exploring some of the challenges he faced in addition to the difficulties associated with transitioning out of cricket.
As always, we ask who Nathan would most like to have a net with and he provides us with three excellent candidates including the first time a WWE Superstar gains a nomination.
Please remember to subscribe to the Cricket Library Podcast on your favourite podcast provider and leave a review to help us to continue to share stories like this one from Nathan Hauritz.
In this episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, host Matt Ellis sits down with one of Australia’s most prolific cricket writers, Ken Piesse. With a career spanning decades, Ken has written more than 90 books on the game and served as editor of the legendary Cricketer magazine.
His work has chronicled the stories of great players, historic matches, and the rich traditions that make cricket such a unique sport.
In this conversation, Ken reflects on:
His journey into cricket journalism and publishing Memorable encounters with cricket legends.
The art of telling cricket stories through books.
The enduring charm of grassroots and country cricket.
His latest book celebrating the history and characters of Victorian country cricket.
It’s a fascinating insight into the craft of cricket writing and the passion that keeps the stories of the game alive. If you love cricket history, books, and storytelling, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with the people who shape the game.
Head to https://cricketbooks.com.au/product-c… to find all of Ken's work and much more!
England Captain Mike Atherton presents Adam (left) and Ben Hollioake (right) with their new Test caps prior to the start of the 5th Test at Trent Bridge PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo Photographer: Brendan Monks
Join host Matt Ellis as he sits down with former England captain and all-round great bloke, Adam Hollioake, in this highly anticipated interview.
Get ready to dive deep into Adam’s incredible journey as he shares the origins of his passion for cricket, the unique experience of being born in Australia and playing for England, and the unforgettable moment when he spotted his parents on the big screen at Headingley.
In this engaging conversation, Adam opens up about his approach to captaincy, the profound impact of losing his brother Ben, and the cherished memories they created together. Discover what life has been like for Adam after retiring from cricket, and stay tuned as he reveals the star-studded guest list for his dream net session.
To top it all off, Adam shares a story involving cricket legend Sir Vivian Richards and actor Chris Rock.
With fascinating anecdotes and heartfelt reflections, this interview is a must-listen for cricket enthusiasts and fans of Adam Hollioake alike.
In this episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, host Matt Ellis sits down with one of Australia’s most prolific cricket writers, Ken Piesse. With a career spanning decades, Ken has written more than 90 books on the game and served as editor of the legendary Cricketer magazine.
His work has chronicled the stories of great players, historic matches, and the rich traditions that make cricket such a unique sport.
In this conversation, Ken reflects on:
His journey into cricket journalism and publishing Memorable encounters with cricket legends.
The art of telling cricket stories through books.
The enduring charm of grassroots and country cricket.
His latest book celebrating the history and characters of Victorian country cricket.
It’s a fascinating insight into the craft of cricket writing and the passion that keeps the stories of the game alive. If you love cricket history, books, and storytelling, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with the people who shape the game.
Head to https://cricketbooks.com.au/product-c… to find all of Ken's work and much more!
Queensland bowler Adam Dale celebrates the wicket of Dominic Cork, out LBW, on the third day of England’s tour match, in Cairns. PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo
In the latest episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, Matt Ellis sits down with former QLD and Australian fast bowler Adam Dale.
In this much-anticipated interview, we delve into the origins of his passion for cricket, his journey from Victoria to Queensland, his success at the state level, his time representing Australia, his miracle catch in the Mercantile Mutual Cup and his current work with QLD Cricket.
Get ready for an insightful conversation that covers everything from on-field highs and lows to life after cricket!
Please remember to subscribe to the Cricket Library Podcast on your favourite podcast provider and leave a positive review to help us to continue sharing stories that inspire a love of cricket.
In this episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, host Matt Ellis sits down with one of Australia’s most prolific cricket writers, Ken Piesse. With a career spanning decades, Ken has written more than 90 books on the game and served as editor of the legendary Cricketer magazine.
His work has chronicled the stories of great players, historic matches, and the rich traditions that make cricket such a unique sport.
In this conversation, Ken reflects on:
His journey into cricket journalism and publishing Memorable encounters with cricket legends.
The art of telling cricket stories through books.
The enduring charm of grassroots and country cricket.
His latest book celebrating the history and characters of Victorian country cricket.
It’s a fascinating insight into the craft of cricket writing and the passion that keeps the stories of the game alive. If you love cricket history, books, and storytelling, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with the people who shape the game.
Head to https://cricketbooks.com.au/product-c… to find all of Ken's work and much more!
Australia’s Annabel Sutherland celebrates her century during day two of the first Women’s Ashes test match at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo
On Day 2 of the highly anticipated Ashes Test at Trent Bridge, cricket fans were treated to a remarkable display of skill and determination as Annabel Sutherland, the talented Victorian, etched her name in the history books by scoring her maiden Test match hundred. Sutherland, who had ended Day 1 on an unbeaten 39, demonstrated exceptional batting prowess and resilience as she went on to reach the coveted milestone before the luncheon interval, sending shockwaves through the cricketing world.
The day began with heightened anticipation as Sutherland resumed her innings with the scorecard reading 328 for 7. Her batting on day one, coupled with her recent century in the warm-up game, hinted at her rich vein of form, and she didn’t disappoint. Sutherland exuded confidence and poise with each passing delivery, meticulously constructing her innings.
Her half-century arrived off 100 deliveries, showcasing her ability to pace her innings while displaying an array of strokes. The crowd at Trent Bridge were appreciative of the skill on display as Sutherland’s bat met the ball with precision and timing. It was evident that she was in complete control of her game scoring runs on both sides of the wicket with her driving a hallmark of her innings.
As the morning progressed, Sutherland’s century loomed large. The tension in the air was palpable as she approached the three-figure mark. Finally, whilst navigating the nervous nineties, Sutherland brought up her hundred with a majestic flick through the on-side. The crowd recognised the significance of the achievement as the players balcony rose to their feet, applauding her remarkable feat.
Sutherland’s century not only demonstrated her individual brilliance but also reinforced her crucial role in the Australian team’s success. Her impressive form throughout the summer for Victoria, including two centuries in the WNCL, attested to her consistency and hunger for runs. With a tally of 354 runs at an average of 88.50, Sutherland had already proven herself as a reliable run-scorer. Her Test match hundred only solidified her reputation further.
Furthermore, Sutherland’s magnificent innings placed Australia in a commanding position in the Ashes Test. The scoreboard now reflected Australia’s dominance, with a substantial platform being established as Australia compiled an imposing total. The opposition was left grappling with her meticulous stroke play and impenetrable defence, unable to find a breakthrough. Sutherland’s innings not only amassed runs but also shattered records.
With her hundred, Sutherland etched her name in the annals of women’s cricket. Her remarkable achievement of becoming the highest-scoring number 8 batter in women’s Test cricket history was a testament to her exceptional talent and the strides made in the women’s game. Sutherland’s century will inspire future generations of cricketers, serving as a milestone for aspiring young players.
Annabel Sutherland’s maiden Test match hundred was a momentous occasion, filled with skill, determination, and historic significance. It showcased her immense talent, form, and contribution to Australian cricket. Sutherland will be a player to keep a close eye on as the series continues and will no doubt prove to be a force to be reckoned with. This century was hopefully the first of many more to come, heralding a bright future for both Sutherland and Australian women’s cricket.
In this episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, host Matt Ellis sits down with one of Australia’s most prolific cricket writers, Ken Piesse. With a career spanning decades, Ken has written more than 90 books on the game and served as editor of the legendary Cricketer magazine.
His work has chronicled the stories of great players, historic matches, and the rich traditions that make cricket such a unique sport.
In this conversation, Ken reflects on:
His journey into cricket journalism and publishing Memorable encounters with cricket legends.
The art of telling cricket stories through books.
The enduring charm of grassroots and country cricket.
His latest book celebrating the history and characters of Victorian country cricket.
It’s a fascinating insight into the craft of cricket writing and the passion that keeps the stories of the game alive. If you love cricket history, books, and storytelling, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with the people who shape the game.
Head to https://cricketbooks.com.au/product-c… to find all of Ken's work and much more!
In the realm of dreams, Peter Parker, a former international umpire and an ardent cricket enthusiast, envisions a unique net session with a diverse group of inspirational figures. His choices reflect individuals who possess unwavering passion, a positive mindset, and an undeniable love for the game. Let’s explore Peter Parker’s extraordinary lineup, featuring Nelson Mandela, David Shepherd, and John Howard, and delve into the reasons behind these selections.
Nelson Mandela: A Beacon of Unity and Inspiration
Peter Parker’s dream lineup begins with the legendary Nelson Mandela, a symbol of resilience, forgiveness, and unity. Despite being absent from his original list, Peter acknowledges Mandela’s profound impact on the world and believes that his spirit can be channeled through the net session. Peter explains his choice by stating, “He is just such an inspiration and I think he would bring something incredible to the party”
David Shepherd: A Umpire with a Heart of Gold
Next on Peter Parker’s dream lineup is David Shepherd, a former English test umpire celebrated for his infectious love for the game. By including Shepherd, Peter hopes to infuse the net session with the same incredible energy and love for the game that Shepherd embodied throughout his career.
John Howard: A Leader and Advocate of Cricket
Completing the diverse trio is John Howard, the former Prime Minister of Australia, who displayed a remarkable dedication to cricket. Peter recognises Howard’s leadership skills and his ability to bring people together, stating, “His passion for cricket, his love of the game, even as Prime Minister, to be the leader of our country in the time that he was, you couldn’t go past having him at the nets.”
Peter Parker’s dream cricket net session features an extraordinary lineup of inspirational figures – Nelson Mandela, David Shepherd, and John Howard. While Mandela’s presence is acknowledged in spirit, Peter’s diverse selection embodies the values of unity, passion, and leadership that cricket represents.
By including Nelson Mandela, Peter recognizes the profound impact the iconic leader had on promoting unity and inspiring generations. David Shepherd, with his infectious love for the game, brings an unparalleled energy to the net session, while John Howard’s unwavering support for cricket signifies the importance of leadership and advocacy.
In Peter Parker’s dream cricket net session, we are reminded of the profound influence that legends can have on the game, transcending boundaries and inspiring individuals. The collective energy, positive mindset, and shared love for cricket within this diverse lineup would undoubtedly create an unforgettable experience, embodying the spirit of the sport that unites us all.
Michelle Goszko etched her name in the annals of Australian cricket history with an awe-inspiring double century in June 2001. While the cricketing world often recalls Jason Gillespie’s farewell double ton, it is essential to recognise Goszko’s remarkable feat.
Goszko’s incredible innings unfolded over an arduous 395 minutes at the crease against England at Shenley, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. Recently, she graciously shared her reflections on this achievement during an interview with Matt Ellis on the Cricket Library Podcast.
The match began with England winning the toss and electing to bat. However, they soon found themselves struggling against Australia’s formidable pace spearhead, Cathryn Fitzpatrick. Fitzpatrick’s devastating spell saw her claim remarkable figures of 5-29 from 18.1 overs, dismantling the English top order as they were bundled out for a below par 103.
Goszko vividly recalls the emotions that swirled within her as she stepped onto the field, realising her childhood dream of playing a test match. Without any specific run target in mind, she focused on embracing the opportunity to make an impact, starting with just one run.
“I just remember standing out there and going this is the dream to play a test, it’s something you’ve watched on TV for so long and how to embrace the opportunity and I didn’t have any plans about how many runs I wanted to get I just wanted to get one”
On the first day, Goszko experienced a nerve-wracking moment when, overcome with excitement, she called for a risky run that could have resulted in her or her batting partner, Lisa Keightley, being dismissed. Fortunately, Keightley calmed her down, emphasising the importance of composure and reminding her they had the whole next day to continue their partnership.
“I think I batted at number four that day and I had to go in and bat I think for about 45 minutes at the end of the first day and I was starting with Lisa Keightley and I I got that excited that I think last ball of the day I hit the ball straight to midwicket and I called yes and she’s like what are you doing no! I would have been run out by half a pitch or barbecued Lisa Keightley and she’s like just calm down we’ve got tomorrow”
Goszko and Keightley survived the day, and Australia were well poised to take the ascendency in the game at 2-60 at stumps with Keightley on 19 and Goszko on 21.
The following day, Goszko embarked on her journey to achieve significant milestones, fuelled by the encouragement and support of her roommate, Charmaine Mason, a talented player on the tour.
“I was rooming with Charmaine Mason who was just as good as Catherine Fitzpatrick they were like a good duo bowling together Fitzy was probably if she was quicker but Charmaine could swing the ball a little bit both ways and and she was a really hard player to play against. I was rooming with her and she thought she was my lucky charm after after this two hundred so I roomed with her for the whole two months pretty much. I was lucky that she came out and I I sort of gone through my you know 20 30s 40s 50s and she said it to me at the lunch break if you get 100 I’ll give you 20 quid. I’m like yeah you beauty, we were getting 20 quid a day that was our payment, I was like oh my gosh like this is so good I can afford dinner.”
However, Mason, recognising Goszko’s hunger for success, increased the stakes to 50 quid if she surpassed the double-century mark.
“I’ve got a hundred and then she actually said to me I think it was at tea or something like that she’s like if you get 200, I’ll give you 50 quid I’m like oh my god if I get that I can buy a steak so I was very excited driven by my stomach mind you.”
With a succulent steak for the taking Goszko was in the zone and laser-focused on making history. She was running out of partners, however, and it was fitting that she would be joined at the crease by Charmaine and with one wicket in hand, it was all on the line.
“As it would be, I got to 194 I think and we had nine wickets down and coming out to bat is Charmaine Mason she was the last and I’m like oh there goes my 50 quid”
But Mason’s determination to witness history unfold took charge. She urged Goszko on, defending resolutely and ensuring Goszko’s monumental innings reached its pinnacle. Eventually, after a gruelling 395 minutes at the crease, Goszko achieved an extraordinary 204 runs.
“Anyway, she’s come out and she looked in the eye and she’s like don’t you, I won’t swear, get out we’re going to get you to 200. okay all right she was bossing me and she defended so well out there she kept every ball out and I nudged my way to 200. which was unbelievable and it was really good synergy for me to be out there with with Chucky and and to get that and after the game we went out to celebrate.”
Despite being unable to relish the anticipated steak, Goszko showcased her selfless nature by generously treating her teammates to the spoils of her accomplishment.
“That 50 Quid that I got I ended up putting on the bar and I got none out of it anyway so, I didn’t even get a steak”
Australia went on to have a comprehensive win in the Test Match knocking England over in their second innings for just 101 with Olivia Magno and Catherine Fitzpatrick each claiming 3 wickets along the way.
Interestingly, the combined total of both English innings amounted to 204 runs, precisely equaling Goszko’s remarkable individual score. Reflecting on this coincidence, Goszko humorously remarks how she wishes she had scored just one more run to claim sole responsibility for outscoring the entire English team.
“But it was surreal that my 204 equalled both Innings from England so I kind of I wish I got one more run because then I could say I beat England on my own”
Reflecting on the achievement Michelle puts it in perspective, acknowledging how important her team were in helping her to achieve the personal milestone.
“You need your teammates out there to help you and I was lucky enough to build those sort of Partnerships with everybody and I couldn’t have done it without my team.”
Ultimately, Michelle Goszko’s extraordinary double century is a testament to her determination, perseverance, and invaluable support from her teammates. Her accomplishment will forever be etched in cricketing history, an inspiring tale of individual excellence intertwined with the spirit of teamwork.
In this episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, host Matt Ellis sits down with one of Australia’s most prolific cricket writers, Ken Piesse. With a career spanning decades, Ken has written more than 90 books on the game and served as editor of the legendary Cricketer magazine.
His work has chronicled the stories of great players, historic matches, and the rich traditions that make cricket such a unique sport.
In this conversation, Ken reflects on:
His journey into cricket journalism and publishing Memorable encounters with cricket legends.
The art of telling cricket stories through books.
The enduring charm of grassroots and country cricket.
His latest book celebrating the history and characters of Victorian country cricket.
It’s a fascinating insight into the craft of cricket writing and the passion that keeps the stories of the game alive. If you love cricket history, books, and storytelling, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with the people who shape the game.
Head to https://cricketbooks.com.au/product-c… to find all of Ken's work and much more!
Australian bowler Adam Dale appeals for the wicket of Worcestershire’s Vikran Solanki Photographer: Matthew AshtonContributor:PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo
The Cricket Library Podcast recently had the pleasure of interviewing none other than Adam Dale, known for his remarkable career representing Queensland and Australia.
In this much-anticipated interview, we delve into the origins of his passion for cricket, his journey from Victoria to Queensland, his success at the state level, his time representing Australia, his miracle catch in the Mercantile Mutual Cup and his current work with QLD Cricket.
Get ready for an insightful conversation that covers everything from on-field highs and lows to life after cricket!
In this episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, host Matt Ellis sits down with one of Australia’s most prolific cricket writers, Ken Piesse. With a career spanning decades, Ken has written more than 90 books on the game and served as editor of the legendary Cricketer magazine.
His work has chronicled the stories of great players, historic matches, and the rich traditions that make cricket such a unique sport.
In this conversation, Ken reflects on:
His journey into cricket journalism and publishing Memorable encounters with cricket legends.
The art of telling cricket stories through books.
The enduring charm of grassroots and country cricket.
His latest book celebrating the history and characters of Victorian country cricket.
It’s a fascinating insight into the craft of cricket writing and the passion that keeps the stories of the game alive. If you love cricket history, books, and storytelling, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with the people who shape the game.
Head to https://cricketbooks.com.au/product-c… to find all of Ken's work and much more!
– The Ashes 2009 – npower Third Test – Day Two – England v Australia – Edgbaston Photographer: Stephen PondPA Images / Alamy Stock Photo
Graham Manou’s Test debut for Australia during the 2009 Ashes tour holds a special place in his cricketing journey. Stepping onto the field at Birmingham, after incumbent wicket keeper Brad Haddin was a late withdrawal from the fixture with a broken finger, Manou’s remarkable debut showcased his personal achievements and highlighted the power of team culture and a sense of belonging. In this article, we delve into Manou’s recollections of his debut, emphasising the warm camaraderie within the team and the unique sense of unity he experienced during the Ashes series.
As Manou reflects on his debut, he fondly remembers the supportive environment created by the team. The warm-up session before the match allowed the players to connect and prepare for the upcoming challenge. It is evident that the presence of experienced players, such as Ricky Ponting, contributed to a nurturing atmosphere.
“I had never experienced such culture and cohesion in a group….. Geez they made you feel like you were a part of it, you had earned it and you deserved to be there, even despite the circumstances.” Manou recounts.
Graham describes the experience of being part of the Australian Test squad during the Ashes series as something truly special. The players had all achieved success individually and were now united in their mission to reclaim the Ashes urn. This shared experience and collective goal created a strong bond among the team members.
“What I do recall during that period of time was how happy every single person in that group was for everybody when they succeeded” Manou recalls.
Graham Manou’s debut exemplified the power of belonging and unity within a team. Despite the pressure and the weight of the Ashes rivalry, he felt a deep sense of acceptance and support from his teammates. This sense of belonging allowed Manou to perform at his best and embrace the opportunity to represent his country in such a high-stakes series.
After Ponting won the toss and elected to bat, the Australians made a modest 263 with Shane Watson top scoring with 62. Manou then enjoyed the thrill of taking his first catch behind the stumps in a test match when Peter Siddle found the edge of Alister Cook’s bat in the second over of the England innings. He would take a further two catches as England posted an impressive 376 giving them the ascendency in the test match.
After day three was lost due to rain, the draw was the most likely result and with an unbeaten hundred from Michael Clarke, supported by half-centuries to North, Hussey and Watson, this was the eventual outcome of the match.
Graham Manou’s Test debut during the 2009 Ashes tour remains a significant milestone in his cricketing career. It not only marked his personal achievements but also showcased the importance of team culture and a sense of belonging. Manou’s recollections highlight the supportive environment created by experienced players like Ricky Ponting and the strong camaraderie that fuelled the Australian team’s pursuit of victory. His journey from domestic cricket to the Ashes stage serves as a testament to perseverance, dedication, and the power of a cohesive team unit in the highly competitive world of international cricket.
In this episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, host Matt Ellis sits down with one of Australia’s most prolific cricket writers, Ken Piesse. With a career spanning decades, Ken has written more than 90 books on the game and served as editor of the legendary Cricketer magazine.
His work has chronicled the stories of great players, historic matches, and the rich traditions that make cricket such a unique sport.
In this conversation, Ken reflects on:
His journey into cricket journalism and publishing Memorable encounters with cricket legends.
The art of telling cricket stories through books.
The enduring charm of grassroots and country cricket.
His latest book celebrating the history and characters of Victorian country cricket.
It’s a fascinating insight into the craft of cricket writing and the passion that keeps the stories of the game alive. If you love cricket history, books, and storytelling, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with the people who shape the game.
Head to https://cricketbooks.com.au/product-c… to find all of Ken's work and much more!
Welcome to the latest edition of the Cricket Library Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Tim Macdonald who has forged a career that spans across various roles in the sport.
Join us as we delve into Tim’s passion for cricket, tracing back to the early days and the driving forces that ignited his love for the game. We explore the pivotal moments that led to his breakthrough into First-Class Cricket, the challenges faced, and the triumphs celebrated along the way.
Tim shares his experiences of moving from Western Australia to Tasmania, shedding light on the transition and its impact on his career and personal growth. We also gain valuable insights into Tim’s foray into coaching, the joys and challenges of guiding aspiring cricketers, and his unique perspective to the coaching arena.
Finally, we uncover the secrets behind Western Australia’s recent success on the field. We explore the factors contributing to the team’s achievements and the strategies implemented to foster a culture of excellence and growth.
Don’t miss out on this fascinating conversation, and be sure to subscribe to the Cricket Library Podcast and leave a review to help us to continue to start conversations that inspire a love of cricket.
In this episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, host Matt Ellis sits down with one of Australia’s most prolific cricket writers, Ken Piesse. With a career spanning decades, Ken has written more than 90 books on the game and served as editor of the legendary Cricketer magazine.
His work has chronicled the stories of great players, historic matches, and the rich traditions that make cricket such a unique sport.
In this conversation, Ken reflects on:
His journey into cricket journalism and publishing Memorable encounters with cricket legends.
The art of telling cricket stories through books.
The enduring charm of grassroots and country cricket.
His latest book celebrating the history and characters of Victorian country cricket.
It’s a fascinating insight into the craft of cricket writing and the passion that keeps the stories of the game alive. If you love cricket history, books, and storytelling, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with the people who shape the game.
Head to https://cricketbooks.com.au/product-c… to find all of Ken's work and much more!
In the world of cricket, there are moments that etch themselves into the annals of history. Wayne Holdsworth’s innings of 49 not out in the Mercantile Mutual Cup is one such unforgettable feat. On that day, everything aligned for the New South Wales cricketer, as he displayed immense skill, determination, and a touch of magic. Let’s delve into the remarkable innings that left fans in awe and etched Holdsworth’s name in cricketing folklore.
Recalling that fateful day, Wayne Holdsworth reflects, “It was one of those days that just everything went right.” As he walked out to bat, his captain, Mark Taylor, gave him a modest target of reaching 280-290. Little did they know what was about to unfold, as Holdsworth unleashed a display of power and precision.
With each swing of the bat, Holdsworth connected with the ball perfectly. Boundaries flowed effortlessly, and the crowd watched in awe as the ball disappeared over the ropes time and time again. Holdsworth remembers, “I swung, and I just connected with it. They could go out of the fence or into the fence.”
The year saw the fastest half-century record up for grabs, with Damien Martyn leading the race with 34 balls. Wayne Holdsworth, however, was in a league of his own on track to surpass the record comfortably, leaving everyone astonished. The momentum of his innings was simply unparalleled, and he left the opposition in disarray.
As the innings reached its climax, Wayne Holdsworth needed three runs off the final ball to complete a well-deserved half-century. Unfortunately, he managed only two runs, falling agonisingly short of the milestone. As he returned to the dressing room, there was an eerie silence. Mark Waugh broke the tension, telling Holdsworth, “Well, if you could bowl you’d be a good all-rounder,”
In a gesture that encapsulated the team’s appreciation for Holdsworth’s valiant knock, Mark Waugh handed him a signed bat with a heartfelt message. It read, “To Wayne Holdsworth, all the best if you could bowl you’d be a good all rounder Mark Waugh.” This souvenir served as a constant reminder of the memorable day.
Wayne Holdsworth’s innings of 49 not out in the Mercantile Mutual Cup remains etched in the memories of cricket fans worldwide. It was a display of power, precision, and sheer audacity that left spectators in awe. While falling agonisingly short of a half-century, Holdsworth’s innings showcased his ability to seize the moment and elevate his team’s chances. His legacy serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of cricket and the enduring spirit of those who play the game with passion and skill.
In this episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, host Matt Ellis sits down with one of Australia’s most prolific cricket writers, Ken Piesse. With a career spanning decades, Ken has written more than 90 books on the game and served as editor of the legendary Cricketer magazine.
His work has chronicled the stories of great players, historic matches, and the rich traditions that make cricket such a unique sport.
In this conversation, Ken reflects on:
His journey into cricket journalism and publishing Memorable encounters with cricket legends.
The art of telling cricket stories through books.
The enduring charm of grassroots and country cricket.
His latest book celebrating the history and characters of Victorian country cricket.
It’s a fascinating insight into the craft of cricket writing and the passion that keeps the stories of the game alive. If you love cricket history, books, and storytelling, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with the people who shape the game.
Head to https://cricketbooks.com.au/product-c… to find all of Ken's work and much more!
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