So far, on our little trip through the history of cricket in Australia, we’ve learnt about the early days of Australian cricket – from settlement to the start of World War II, and then we learnt about cricket in the first half of the 20th century.
Today, we start in the 50’s and progress through to the 70’s.
History of Cricket in Australia – 1950s: Post-War Rebuilding and New Challenges
The 1950s marked the dawn of a new era for Australian cricket as the nation began rebuilding after the disruptions of World War II. The post-war period necessitated significant efforts to restore the sport, both in terms of infrastructure and player development. Australian cricket emerged resiliently, aiming to reclaim its dominance on the international stage.
Key players of this era, including Neil Harvey and Keith Miller, made significant contributions to the resurgence of Australian cricket.
Neil Harvey, 1950 Unknown (Argus, Melbourne, Vic.), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Neil Harvey, a prolific batsman known for his elegant stroke play, became a mainstay of the Australian batting lineup. His consistency and ability to perform under pressure were invaluable assets to the team.
Keith Miller, 1951 Unknown (Sydney Morning Herald), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Keith Miller, an exceptional all-rounder, brought flair and versatility to the side. His explosive batting, effective bowling, and charismatic presence made him one of the most celebrated cricketers of his time. One of the most notable series during this period was the 1950-51 Ashes series. Australia hosted England in a fiercely contested series that highlighted the competitive spirit and skill of both teams. Australia emerged victorious, winning the series 4-1, with standout performances from players like Harvey and Miller.
Rise of New Talents: Mid-1950s
The mid-1950s saw the rise of new cricketing talents who would go on to leave an indelible mark on Australian cricket. This period was marked by the emergence of stars like Richie Benaud and Alan Davidson, whose contributions significantly enhanced the team’s performance and reputation.
Richie Benaud in Commentary PaddyBriggs at English Wikipedia, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Richie Benaud, who later became one of cricket’s most respected commentators, was an exceptional all-rounder known for his leg-spin bowling and aggressive batting. His leadership qualities and strategic acumen made him a pivotal figure in the Australian team. Benaud’s influence extended beyond his on-field performances, as he was instrumental in fostering a positive and competitive team culture.
Alan Davidson, another standout player of the mid-1950s, was renowned for his left-arm fast-medium bowling and robust lower-order batting. Davidson’s ability to swing the ball both ways made him a formidable opponent for any batsman. His contributions with both bat and ball were crucial in many of Australia’s victories during this period.
One of the most significant series during the mid-1950s was the 1956 Ashes series in England. This series is particularly remembered for the “Laker’s match,” where English off-spinner Jim Laker took an astonishing 19 wickets in the fourth Test at Old Trafford.
Leadership and Innovation: Late 1950s
The late 1950s were a transformative period for Australian cricket, largely due to the innovative leadership of Richie Benaud. Appointed as captain in 1958, Benaud’s approach to captaincy and his tactical acumen had a profound impact on the team, ushering in a new era of success and strategic brilliance.
Richie Benaud’s captaincy was characterized by his forward-thinking strategies and his ability to inspire his teammates. He was known for his calm demeanor and his knack for making astute decisions under pressure.
Benaud’s leadership emphasized teamwork, discipline, and a positive attitude, which played a crucial role in revitalizing Australian cricket. His innovative use of field placements and bowling changes kept opponents on their toes and showcased his deep understanding of the game.
Under Benaud’s leadership, Australia saw significant innovations in tactics and strategy. He encouraged aggressive and attacking play, both in batting and bowling, which often put the opposition on the back foot.
Benaud himself, a skilled leg-spinner, led by example, frequently contributing vital wickets and handy lower-order runs. His approach to captaincy was not just about winning matches but also about entertaining the crowd and promoting the spirit of the game.
One of the most memorable series under Benaud’s captaincy was the 1958-59 Ashes series. After losing the Ashes in 1956, Australia was determined to reclaim them.
Under Benaud’s astute leadership, the Australian team performed brilliantly, winning the series 4-0. This series marked a resurgence of Australian cricket and was highlighted by exceptional performances from players like Alan Davidson and Neil Harvey.
Benaud’s leadership was instrumental in this success, and his tactical innovations were widely praised.
The Stats: Australian Stats between 1950 and 1960
During this time period, Australia played their first test against Pakistan. Overall, Australia played 57 tests, winning 29 losing 12, and drawing 16. Of these, 25 were played against England (10/7/8), 13 were played against South Africa (7/2/4), and 10 were played against West Indies (7/1/2). Australia also played tests against India (5: 3/1/1) and Pakistan (4: 2/1/1).
Australia’s top 5 batsmen for this time period were:
RN Harvey : 56 Tests, 4573 runs; average of 50.25, 15 centuries, high score of 205
CC McDonald : 36 Tests, 2590 runs; average of 43.16, 5 centuries, high score of 170
KR Miller : 37 Tests, 2080 runs; average of 34.66, 6 centuries, high score of 147
AR Morris : 30 Tests, 2059 runs; average of 38.12, 5 centuries, high score of 206
AL Hassett : 22 Tests, 1712 runs; average of 45.05, 6 centuries, high score of 167
Australia’s top 5 bowlers for this time period were:
R Benaud : 42 Tests, 165 wickets; average of 23.95, 11 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 7/72
RR Lindwall : 42 Tests, 152 wickets; average of 24.25, 7 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 7/43
KR Miller : 37 Tests, 122 wickets; average of 23.59, 5 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/107
WA Johnston : 29 Tests, 106 wickets; average of 26.66, 5 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/62
AK Davidson : 27 Tests, 92 wickets; average of 20.5, 5 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 7/93
1960s: Consolidation and Improved Rivals
The 1960s were a period of consolidation and the emergence of new rivals for Australian cricket. This decade saw Australia maintain its dominance in the early years and adapt to the evolving competitive landscape of international cricket.
The first series of the decade was against the West Indies. This series would produce one of the hardest fought and most entertaining series up to that point, beginning with the first ever test match tie at Brisbane. Australia would win 2-1, but West Indies played with such spirit and entertainment that they were given a parade on leaving the country.
Players like Bob Simpson and Bill Lawry made substantial contributions to the team’s success during this period.
Bob Simpson, 1957 Australian News and Information Bureau, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Bob Simpson, an outstanding batsman and effective leg-spinner, provided stability and leadership to the team. He was particularly renowned for his meticulous batting and ability to play long, match-defining innings.
Bill Lawry, known for his solid opening batting, played a crucial role in providing strong starts for the team. His defensive technique and patience were instrumental in building formidable innings.
The influence of Ian Meckiff, a left-arm fast bowler, was also notable during this period. However, Meckiff’s career was marred by controversy due to accusations of “chucking” (illegal bowling action). The chucking controversy reached its peak during the 1963-64 series against South Africa, leading to Meckiff’s removal from international cricket. This incident had a significant impact on cricket’s regulatory framework, prompting stricter enforcement of bowling action laws.
Facing New Challenges: Mid-1960s
The mid-1960s brought new challenges for Australian cricket as the rise of cricketing nations other than England increased competition on the international stage. Teams like the West Indies and South Africa were now becoming formidable opponents, challenging Australia’s dominance and adding intensity to the sport.
In 1965, the West Indies became the first team, other than England, to beat Australia in a multi-test series. Led by Garry Sobers, one of the greatest all-rounders to have every played the game, West Indies won 2-1.
And in 1966/67, South Africa became the second, winning a 3-1 series in South Africa.
Australia’s performance against these rising cricketing nations showcased both strengths and areas for improvement. The series against the West Indies, particularly the 1965-66 tour, highlighted the competitiveness between the two teams. The West Indies, led by the charismatic Garfield Sobers, displayed a blend of explosive batting and fast bowling that tested the Australian team.
Similarly, the series against South Africa during this period were fiercely contested. The 1966-67 tour to South Africa saw Australia face a strong and determined South African side. The South African team’s disciplined performance highlighted the evolving competitive landscape of international cricket.
The improvement of these other countries showed that test cricket was no longer a two horse race, with Australia and England being the top two and everyone else playing for the minor medals. Now, other countries were not just competing, but beating the Australians.
This necessitated an evolution in team dynamics and strategies for Australia. The team had to adapt to different playing conditions, diverse bowling attacks, and varied batting styles. This period saw a greater emphasis on building a cohesive unit that could perform consistently across different environments.
Players like Bill Lawry and Bobby Simpson, who provided stability and leadership, were crucial in navigating these challenges.
Key matches during this period not only tested the team’s skills but also highlighted the importance of adaptability and resilience. The experiences gained from these encounters contributed to the overall growth and development of Australian cricket, ensuring that the team remained competitive on the global stage.
Transition and Transformation: Late 1960s
The late 1960s were a period of transition and transformation for Australian cricket, marked by changes in leadership and the emergence of young talents. This era set the stage for a new generation of cricketers who would shape the future of the game.
A significant transition in leadership occurred during this time, with Bill Lawry and later Ian Chappell taking on the role of captain.
Bill Lawry, known for his gritty and determined batting, brought a sense of stability and resilience to the team. His leadership style emphasized discipline and hard work, qualities that were essential during this transitional phase.
Ian Chappell The original uploader was Phanto282 at English Wikipedia., CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Ian Chappell, who succeeded Lawry, introduced a more aggressive and innovative approach to captaincy. Chappell’s leadership was characterized by his strategic acumen and his ability to inspire and motivate his teammates.
The 1969-70 series against South Africa had a profound impact on Australian cricket, not only for the on-field performances but also for the political implications. Australia toured South Africa during a time when the country was under intense scrutiny for its apartheid policies.
The series ended in a 4-0 defeat for Australia, but the political and ethical debates surrounding the tour overshadowed the cricketing outcomes. The international cricket community faced increasing pressure to address the moral implications of engaging with apartheid-era South Africa, leading to a re-evaluation of future tours and sporting engagements.
The Stats: Australian Stats between 1960 and 1970
Overall, during this time period, Australia played 66 tests, winning 23, losing 14 and drawing 29. Of these, 25 were played against England (6/4/15), 15 were played against India (9/2/4), and 15 were played against West Indies (6/4/4 including 1 tie). Australia also played tests against South Africa (10: 2/4/4) and Australia also played tests against Pakistan (2: 0/0/2).
Australia’s top 5 batsmen for this time period were:
WM Lawry : 58 46, 4717 runs; average of 49.65, 13 centuries, high score of 210
RB Simpson : 46 46, 3995 runs; average of 51.21, 8 centuries, high score of 311
NCL O’Neill : 32 46, 2219 runs; average of 44.38, 5 centuries, high score of 181
RM Cowper : 27 46, 2061 runs; average of 46.84, 5 centuries, high score of 307
KD Walters : 21 46, 1992 runs; average of 66.4, 7 centuries, high score of 242
Australia’s top 5 bowlers for this time period were:
GD McKenzie : 54 46, 238 wickets; average of 27.91, 16 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 8/71
AK Davidson : 17 46, 94 wickets; average of 20.56, 9 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/53
NJN Hawke : 27 46, 91 wickets; average of 29.41, 6 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 7/105
R Benaud : 21 46, 83 wickets; average of 33.15, 5 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/70
AN Connolly : 24 46, 81 wickets; average of 29.35, 2 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 5/72
1970s: The Packer Era and Commercialization
After an initial Ashes loss against the English in 1970/71, the early 1970s were a period of stability and success for Australian cricket, marked by dominance under the leadership of Ian Chappell. Chappell’s aggressive and assertive captaincy style reinvigorated the team, fostering a culture of competitiveness and excellence that defined this era.
Key players of this era, such as Dennis Lillee and Greg Chappell, played crucial roles in Australia’s success.
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Dennis Lillee Eva Rinaldi, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Dennis Lillee, renowned for his fiery pace and aggressive bowling, was instrumental in dismantling opposition batting line-ups. His ability to generate fearsome speed and movement made him one of the most feared fast bowlers of his time.
Greg Chappell, on the other hand, was a prolific batsman whose elegant stroke play and consistent run-scoring anchored the Australian batting order. His contributions with the bat were pivotal in many of Australia’s victories during this period. The early 1970s also saw Australia’s team dynamics evolve, with a focus on building a cohesive and resilient unit. The combination of experienced players and emerging talents created a balanced team capable of competing at the highest level. This period laid the groundwork for the transformations that would follow in the latter part of the decade.
Mid-1970s: The Rise of World Series Cricket
The mid-1970s witnessed a seismic shift in the cricketing landscape with the introduction of Kerry Packer’s World Series Cricket (WSC) in 1977. This revolutionary concept brought significant changes to the sport, leading to its professionalization and altering its traditional structure.
Kerry Packer, a media tycoon, introduced World Series Cricket as a breakaway competition featuring some of the world’s best players. Dissatisfied with the traditional cricket establishment’s reluctance to modernize and better compensate players, Packer signed up numerous top cricketers to participate in his new league.
This move was initially met with significant controversy and resistance from cricket boards and purists who viewed WSC as a threat to the traditional format of the game.
The introduction of WSC brought several innovations that transformed cricket. The use of coloured clothing, night matches under floodlights, and white cricket balls were revolutionary changes that enhanced the spectacle of the game and attracted a broader audience.
These innovations not only increased the entertainment value of cricket but also set new standards for its presentation and marketing.
The initial controversy surrounding WSC was intense, with players who joined the league facing bans from traditional cricket. However, the success of WSC in drawing large crowds and generating significant television revenues eventually led to its acceptance.
The professionalization of cricket, driven by better player compensation and more commercial opportunities, became an irreversible trend.
WSC’s impact was profound, leading to a more commercially viable and globally popular sport. The competition forced traditional cricket authorities to adopt many of WSC’s innovations, integrating them into mainstream cricket.
This era marked the beginning of modern cricket as we know it today, characterized by professionalism, commercialization, and widespread appeal.
Late 1970s: Adjusting to New Realities
The late 1970s were a period of significant adaptation for Australian cricket as the sport adjusted to the new realities brought about by World Series Cricket (WSC). The changes introduced by WSC necessitated a re-evaluation of strategies, management, and player development within the traditional framework of cricket.
Australia’s adaptation to these changes involved embracing the innovations introduced by WSC. The use of coloured clothing, night matches, and enhanced marketing efforts became integral parts of the sport. These adaptations helped to attract a broader audience and increased the commercial viability of cricket, aligning with the professional standards set by WSC.
This period also saw a focus on improving player welfare and compensation, recognizing the importance of professionalizing the sport to retain top talent.
Australian cricket was divided at the end of the 1970s. Many of their best players were playing World Series Cricket, while it seemed that the official test team were left with the rest. Losses to England (3-0 1977), West Indies (2-0 1977/78), England (5/1 1978/79) and India (2-0 1979/80) followed, before the WSC players returned in the 1979/80 test series against West Indies (lost 2-0) and England (won 3-0).
The Stats: Australian Stats between 1970 and 1980
Overall, during this time period, Australia played 83 tests, winning 30, losing 29 and drawing 24. Of these, 34 were played against England (10/13/11), 18 were played against West Indies (8/5/5), and 11 were played against India (3/4/4). Australia also played tests against New Zealand (8: 4/1/3), Pakistan (8: 5/2/1), and South Africa (4: 0/4/0).
Australia’s top 5 batsmen for this time period were:
GS Chappell : 54 Tests, 4398 runs; average of 52.98, 15 centuries, high score of 247*
IM Chappell : 45 Tests, 3512 runs; average of 44.45, 10 centuries, high score of 196
KD Walters : 47 Tests, 2968 runs; average of 40.1, 7 centuries, high score of 250
IR Redpath : 33 Tests, 2861 runs; average of 50.19, 7 centuries, high score of 171
RW Marsh : 55 Tests, 2471 runs; average of 31.27, 3 centuries, high score of 132
Australia’s top 5 bowlers for this time period were:
DK Lillee : 35 Tests, 184 wickets; average of 23.78, 12 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/26
JR Thomson : 34 Tests, 152 wickets; average of 25.6, 6 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/46
MHN Walker : 34 Tests, 138 wickets; average of 27.47, 6 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 8/143
AA Mallett : 28 Tests, 91 wickets; average of 29.76, 3 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 8/59
RM Hogg : 16 Tests, 64 wickets; average of 23.43, 5 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/74
Introduction of ODI Cricket: Early Developments
The early 1970s marked a pivotal moment in cricket history with the inception of One Day Internationals (ODIs), a format that would revolutionize the sport. Australia played a crucial role in the development and popularization of ODIs, embracing the new format that combined traditional cricketing skills with the excitement of shorter, more dynamic matches.
The first ODI match was held on January 5, 1971, between Australia and England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Originally scheduled as a Test match, rain disruptions led to the decision to play a one-day, 40-over-per-side match.
This experimental match drew a significant crowd and proved to be a resounding success, demonstrating the potential for this new format to attract fans and generate excitement. Australia won the historic encounter, laying the foundation for future ODI cricket.
The impact of ODI cricket on the traditional format was profound. ODIs introduced a faster-paced, more aggressive style of play that appealed to a broader audience.
The format required teams to adapt their strategies, emphasizing quick scoring, innovative shot-making, and aggressive bowling tactics. The introduction of coloured clothing, white balls, and day-night matches under floodlights further enhanced the appeal of ODIs, making them more visually engaging and accessible to spectators.
In Australia, the popularity of ODI cricket soared, quickly becoming a favourite among fans. The shorter format fit well with modern lifestyles, providing a thrilling spectacle that could be enjoyed in a single day. The success of ODIs also brought financial benefits, as the format proved to be commercially viable, attracting sponsors and television audiences.
The early developments of ODI cricket in the 1970s set the stage for the format’s global expansion and enduring popularity. Australia’s embrace of ODIs, highlighted by their involvement in the first match and subsequent successes, played a significant role in establishing the format as a permanent and beloved fixture in the cricketing calendar.
One of the standout moments in Australia’s early ODI history was the inaugural Cricket World Cup, where Australia reached the final, showcasing their prowess in the limited-overs format. Although they were defeated by the West Indies in the final, Australia’s journey to the final was marked by significant victories, including a memorable win against England in the semi-final.
Star players like Greg Chappell, Dennis Lillee, and Rod Marsh were instrumental in these early achievements.
Greg Chappell’s batting brilliance provided stability and flair in the middle order. His ability to adapt to the faster pace of ODIs made him a key player. Dennis Lillee’s fast bowling was a crucial asset, with his aggression and precision creating pressure on opposing batsmen. Rod Marsh, with his exceptional wicketkeeping and handy contributions with the bat, added depth and balance to the team.
The Stats: Australian One Day Stats between 1970 and 1980
Overall, during this time period, Australia played 30 games, winning 15, losing 15 with 0 tied and 1 no results. Of these, 17 were played against England (6/10/0/1) and 8 were played against West Indies (4/4/0/0). Australia also played matches against New Zealand (2: 2/0/0/0), Pakistan (2: 1/1/0/0), Sri Lanka (1: 1/0/0/0) and Canada (1: 1/0/0/0).
Australia’s top 5 batsmen for this time period were:
GS Chappell : 22 ODIs, 919 runs; average of 54.05, a strike rate of 74.05, with 1 centuries and a high score of 125*
IM Chappell : 15 ODIs, 665 runs; average of 51.15, a strike rate of 77.41, with 0 centuries and a high score of 86
KD Walters : 15 ODIs, 276 runs; average of 21.23, a strike rate of 67.64, with 0 centuries and a high score of 59
RW Marsh : 21 ODIs, 263 runs; average of 20.23, a strike rate of 69.76, with 0 centuries and a high score of 52*
R Edwards : 9 ODIs, 255 runs; average of 36.42, a strike rate of 73.06, with 0 centuries and a high score of 80*
Australia’s top 5 bowlers for this time period were:
DK Lillee : 15 ODIs, 27 wickets; average of 23.03, an economy rate of 4.1, 1 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 5/34
MHN Walker : 12 ODIs, 17 wickets; average of 23.88, an economy rate of 3.28, 0 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 4/19
GJ Gilmour : 5 ODIs, 16 wickets; average of 10.31, an economy rate of 3.09, 2 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/14
GS Chappell : 22 ODIs, 16 wickets; average of 31.06, an economy rate of 4.2, 1 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 5/20
GJ Cosier : 9 ODIs, 14 wickets; average of 17.71, an economy rate of 3.63, 1 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 5/18
Conclusion
Thank you for reading this exploration of the history of cricket in Australia from 1950 to 1980. These decades were really a rollercoaster of ups and downs for Australian cricket, and, as we will see in the next post regarding the history of cricket in Australia from 1980 to 2000, there are going to be some deeper downs before some major ups. We hope to see you come back for that post.
Do you have any memories of cricket in the 50s, 60s and 70s you want to share? Drop it down in the comments and let’s get a conversation started.