We’ve been on a little trip through the history of cricket in Australia. In Part One, we looked at the early days of cricket in Australia, leading up to the first test in 1877, and then through to 1900.
Now, we’ll look back at cricket in the first half of the 20th century, from 1900 to 1950.
History of Cricket in Australia: 1900 to 1910
Sydney Town Hall celebration Australian Federation, 1901 W. A. Gullick, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
The early 1900s marked a period of significant transformation for Australian cricket, influenced by the federation of Australia in 1901. The unification of the Australian colonies into a single nation had a profound impact on various aspects of society, including cricket.
Federation fostered a stronger sense of national identity and unity, which translated into a more cohesive and organized approach to the administration and promotion of cricket.
One of the key administrative changes during this period was the formation of the Australian Board of Control for International Cricket (ABCIC) in 1905.
This body was established to oversee the management of international cricket tours and to ensure the representation of Australian interests on the global stage.
The ABCIC played a pivotal role in coordinating and organizing tours, negotiating with other cricketing nations, and standardizing the rules and regulations of the game. Its establishment marked a significant step towards professionalizing and structuring Australian cricket.
Early Test Cricket Triumphs
The early 1900s heralded the beginning of a golden era for Australian cricket, marked by significant triumphs in Test cricket. One of the most notable achievements during this period was Australia’s performance in the 1902 Ashes series in England, won 2-1 by Australia.
Victor Trumper, 1905 George Beldam, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Victor Trumper, renowned for his elegant and aggressive batting style, played a remarkable innings in the 4th test, scoring a century at Old Trafford that is still celebrated as one of the finest in cricket history. His ability to dominate the English bowlers with grace and skill earned him widespread acclaim.
The decade wasn’t all success. While Australia would win two Ashes series 4-1 (in 1901/02 and 1907/08) they lost to the old enemy 2-3 in Australia in 1903/04 and 0-2 in the return series in England in 1905.
The Stats: Australian Stats between 1900 and 1910
Between 1900 and 1910, Australia played 33 tests, winning 16, losing 9 and drawing 8. 30 of the tests were against England (winning 1osing 9 and drawing 7), while the rest were against South Africa (winning 2, drawing 1).
Australia’s top 5 batsmen for this time period were:
VT Trumper : 33 Tests, 1953 runs; average of 34.26, 4 centuries, high score of 185*
C Hill : 28 Tests, 1930 runs; average of 38.6, 3 centuries, high score of 160
MA Noble : 33 Tests, 1524 runs; average of 27.7, 1 century, high score of 133
WW Armstrong : 30 Tests, 1513 runs; average of 33.62, 2 centuries, high score of 159*
RA Duff : 22 Tests, 1317 runs; average of 35.59, 2 centuries, high score of 146
Australia’s top 5 bowlers for this time period were:
MA Noble : 33 Tests, 89 wickets; average of 25.1, 7 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 7/17
JV Saunders : 14 Tests, 79 wickets; average of 22.73, 6 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 7/34
H Trumble : 13 Tests, 78 wickets; average of 18.67, 6 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 8/65
A Cotter : 12 Tests, 55 wickets; average of 24.87, 6 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 7/148
WW Armstrong : 30 Tests, 50 wickets; average of 33.32, 3 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/35
1910s: War and Its Impact on Cricket
The 1910s were a tumultuous decade for Australian cricket, marked by both pre-war achievements and the profound impact of World War I. Despite the looming conflict, the early part of the decade saw Australian cricket sustain its excellence, continuing the momentum from the golden era of the early 1900s.
Victor Trumper remained a central figure in this era, continuing to mesmerize crowds with his graceful and aggressive batting. His ability to score runs in challenging conditions cemented his reputation as one of the greatest batsmen of his time.
Warwick Armstrong, 1902 [1], Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Warwick Armstrong, known as “The Big Ship” for his imposing presence and versatile skills, was another key player. As an all-rounder, Armstrong’s contributions with both bat and ball were invaluable to the team.
Charlie Macartney, with his elegant stroke play, also made significant impacts in various matches, further strengthening Australia’s batting lineup.
However, the outbreak of World War I in 1914 brought a sudden halt to cricketing activities. Many cricketers enlisted to serve in the military, and cricket grounds were repurposed for war-related activities. The war’s impact on Australian cricket was profound, with the loss of several prominent players and a significant disruption to domestic and international competitions.
The Great War and Its Consequences: 1914-1918
The outbreak of World War I in 1914 had a profound impact on international cricket, leading to the suspension of almost all cricketing activities during the war years.
The conflict brought a sudden halt to international tours and domestic competitions, as many cricketers enlisted to serve in the military. This suspension of cricket not only disrupted the sport but also marked a significant period of loss and sacrifice for the cricketing community.
The impact of the war on players was deeply felt. Many prominent cricketers from Australia and other cricketing nations joined the armed forces, with some making the ultimate sacrifice on the battlefield.
Albert ‘Tibby’ Cotter, approximately 1905 George Beldam, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
The war claimed the lives of several notable Australian cricketers, including Albert ‘Tibby’ Cotter, a fast bowler renowned for his fiery pace and competitive spirit. The loss of these players was a tragic blow to the cricketing world, as their potential contributions to the sport were cut short.
Cricket activities were also heavily affected during the war. Cricket grounds were repurposed for military use, training camps, and other war-related activities.
The suspension of organized cricket matches meant that players lacked opportunities to hone their skills, and the sport’s development was significantly stunted. The absence of competitive cricket led to a decline in public interest and engagement with the game.
The Stats: Australian Stats between 1910 and 1920
Australia played 16 tests between 1910 and 1920, winning 7, losing and drawing 3. Against England they played 8 tests (1/5/2) and against South Africa they also played 8 (6/1/1).
Australia’s top 5 batsmen for this time period were:
W Bardsley : 15 Tests, 1094 runs; average of 47.56, 3 centuries, high score of 164
VT Trumper : 10 Tests, 930 runs; average of 58.12, 3 centuries, high score of 214*
C Kelleway : 15 Tests, 832 runs; average of 39.61, 2 centuries, high score of 114
WW Armstrong : 10 Tests, 734 runs; average of 40.77, 1 century, high score of 132
C Hill : 10 Tests, 699 runs; average of 38.83, 2 centuries, high score of 191
Australia’s top 5 bowlers for this time period were:
WJ Whitty : 13 Tests, 65 wickets; average of 20.18, 3 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/17
HV Hordern : 7 Tests, 46 wickets; average of 23.36, 5 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 7/90
A Cotter : 9 Tests, 34 wickets; average of 34.73, 1 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/69
GR Hazlitt : 7 Tests, 23 wickets; average of 22.82, 1 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 7/25
C Kelleway : 15 Tests, 23 wickets; average of 38.17, 1 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 5/33
1920s: Revival and Resurgence
The 1920s marked a period of revival and resurgence for Australian cricket as the sport sought to recover from the disruptions caused by World War I. The post-war revival was characterized by the return of international cricket and the re-establishment of domestic competitions, signaling a new era for the game.
The return of international cricket in the early 1920s was a significant milestone in cricket’s rebirth. Australia resumed its Test cricket engagements with a series against England in the 1920-21 Ashes. This series was highly anticipated, symbolizing a return to normalcy and the rekindling of the storied rivalry between Australia and England.
The Australian team, led by the formidable Warwick Armstrong, delivered a dominant performance, winning the series 5-0. This emphatic victory not only restored national pride but also demonstrated Australia’s cricketing prowess on the international stage.
Australia’s performance in the 1920-21 Ashes series was bolstered by the contributions of key figures like Warwick Armstrong and Jack Gregory.
Armstrong was an influential leader whose strategic acumen and all-round skills were pivotal to the team’s success. His ability to inspire and lead his team under challenging circumstances earned him great respect and admiration.
Jack Gregory, 1925 Unknown author, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Jack Gregory, a dynamic fast bowler and powerful batsman, also played a crucial role. His exceptional performances, including scoring centuries and taking crucial wickets, were instrumental in Australia’s sweeping victory.
The influence of these key figures extended beyond their on-field contributions. Armstrong and Gregory helped to instill a renewed sense of confidence and determination within the team. Their leadership and performances set a standard for excellence and resilience, which became hallmarks of Australian cricket.
The mid to late 1920s saw the emergence of new cricketing talents who would go on to become legends of the game. This period was marked by the introduction of young stars like Don Bradman and Bill Ponsford, whose exceptional skills and performances revitalized Australian cricket and set new benchmarks in the sport.
Don Bradman quickly rose to prominence with his extraordinary batting prowess. Known for his incredible consistency and high scoring ability, Bradman captivated cricket fans with his remarkable performances.
Perhaps ironically, his first test against England ended up as a loss to the English by 675 runs, still the largest loss any team has experienced, in terms of runs, in the history of test cricket. England would end up winning the series 4-1, but Don Bradman showed glimpses of his class, scoring two centuries and two fifties.
The Stats: Australian Stats between 1920 and 1930
During this time period, Australia played 28 tests, winning 14, losing 6 and drawing 8. Most of these were against England, 25 (13/6/6), with the remaining 3 against South Africa (1/0/2).
Australia’s top 5 batsmen for this time period were:
J Ryder : 20 Tests, 1394 runs; average of 51.62, 3 centuries, high score of 201*
HL Collins : 19 Tests, 1352 runs; average of 45.06, 4 centuries, high score of 203
CG Macartney : 14 Tests, 1252 runs; average of 69.55, 6 centuries, high score of 170
JM Gregory : 24 Tests, 1146 runs; average of 36.96, 2 centuries, high score of 119
JM Taylor : 20 Tests, 997 runs; average of 35.6, 1 century, high score of 108
Australia’s top 5 bowlers for this time period were:
AA Mailey : 21 Tests, 99 wickets; average of 33.91, 6 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 9/121
JM Gregory : 24 Tests, 85 wickets; average of 31.15, 4 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 7/69
CV Grimmett : 9 Tests, 47 wickets; average of 32.34, 5 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/37
EA McDonald : 11 Tests, 43 wickets; average of 33.27, 2 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 5/32
C Kelleway : 11 Tests, 29 wickets; average of 27.75, 0 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 4/27
1930s: The Bradman Era
The 1930s are often referred to as the Bradman Era, a period in which Don Bradman’s extraordinary cricketing achievements captured the imagination of the world and elevated Australian cricket to unprecedented heights. Bradman’s impact on both Australian and world cricket was profound, as he set records and redefined the standards of batting excellence.
The early 1930s witnessed the phenomenon of Don Bradman’s rise to global fame. His unparalleled run-scoring ability and consistency made him a dominant force in the cricketing world. Bradman’s impact was most notably felt during the 1930 Ashes series in England, where he delivered one of the most remarkable batting performances in the history of the game.
During this series, Bradman scored 974 runs at an astonishing average of 139.14, including a legendary innings of 334 at Headingley. His ability to dismantle the English bowling attack with such ease and precision left fans and critics alike in awe.
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Don Bradman, 1932 Licensed-PD-Art, CC BY-SA 3.0 AU, via Wikimedia Commons
Bradman’s contributions went beyond mere statistics. He brought a new level of professionalism and dedication to the sport, inspiring a generation of cricketers with his approach to the game.
His meticulous preparation, innovative techniques, and mental resilience set new benchmarks for aspiring players. Bradman’s influence extended internationally, as he became a global ambassador for cricket, promoting the sport and enhancing its popularity.
In addition to Bradman, the 1930s saw the rise of other notable Australian cricketers who played crucial roles in the team’s success.
Clarrie Grimmett, 1934 [1], Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Clarrie Grimmett, a master leg-spinner, was instrumental in securing victories with his cunning and skillful bowling. Grimmett’s ability to outwit batsmen and take crucial wickets made him one of the most feared bowlers of his era.
Stan McCabe, known for his elegant and aggressive batting, also made significant contributions. McCabe’s memorable innings, such as his 232 against England at Trent Bridge in 1938, showcased his talent and flair.
Cricket in a Changing World: Mid to Late 1930s
The mid to late 1930s were a period of dominance for Australian cricket, marked by significant achievements and memorable series. Despite the broader global context of economic hardship and political instability, Australian cricket flourished, cementing its status as a leading force in the sport.
Australia’s dominance in international cricket during this period was evident through their impressive performances in various series. The Australian team, led by influential figures like Don Bradman and Bill Woodfull, showcased their prowess by winning numerous Test matches and series. The consistency and excellence of the Australian players ensured that the team remained at the pinnacle of world cricket.
One of the most notable series of this era was the infamous Bodyline series of 1932-33. This series between Australia and England was characterized by the controversial tactics employed by the English bowlers, who aimed to curb the scoring of Don Bradman by bowling fast, short-pitched deliveries directed at the batsmen’s bodies.
The Bodyline tactics, orchestrated by England’s captain Douglas Jardine and executed by bowlers like Harold Larwood, led to a significant diplomatic and sporting fallout.
Cricket played a crucial role in Australian society during the Great Depression, providing much-needed entertainment and a sense of normalcy amidst widespread economic hardship. Matches drew large crowds, as people sought to escape the harsh realities of daily life.
The success of the national team offered a source of pride and unity for Australians, reinforcing the sport’s importance in the cultural fabric of the country.
The Stats: Australian Stats between 1930 and 1940
During this time period, Australia played their first test against the West Indies. Overall, Australia played 39 tests, winning 22, losing 10 and drawing 7. Most of these were against England: 24 (9/9/6), with 10 against South Africa (9/0/1) and 5 against West Indies (4/1/0).
Australia’s top 5 batsmen for this time period were:
DG Bradman : 33 Tests, 4625 runs; average of 102.77, 19 centuries, high score of 334
SJ McCabe : 39 Tests, 2748 runs; average of 48.21, 6 centuries, high score of 232
WH Ponsford : 20 Tests, 1604 runs; average of 55.31, 5 centuries, high score of 266
WM Woodfull : 25 Tests, 1503 runs; average of 42.94, 2 centuries, high score of 161
WA Brown : 16 Tests, 1324 runs; average of 49.03, 4 centuries, high score of 206*
Australia’s top 5 bowlers for this time period were:
CV Grimmett : 28 Tests, 169 wickets; average of 21.95, 16 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 7/40
WJ O’Reilly : 26 Tests, 136 wickets; average of 23.68, 10 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 7/54
H Ironmonger : 12 Tests, 68 wickets; average of 15.05, 4 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 7/23
TW Wall : 17 Tests, 48 wickets; average of 37.93, 2 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 5/14
LO Fleetwood-Smith : 10 Tests, 42 wickets; average of 37.38, 2 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/110
1940s: War and Post-War Challenges
The 1940s were a period of significant disruption for cricket, both in Australia and internationally, due to the outbreak of World War II. The war had a profound impact on the sport, leading to the suspension of international cricket and the involvement of many players in the war effort.
World War II effectively put cricket on hold as countries focused on the war. In Australia, the impact was felt across all levels of the sport. Many prominent cricketers enlisted in the armed forces, leaving a considerable gap in the national and domestic teams.
Keith Miller, 1946 Unknown (The Age), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Players like Keith Miller and Bill Brown served in the Royal Australian Air Force, while others joined different branches of the military. The war not only interrupted their careers but also brought about significant personal challenges and risks.
The last pre-war Test series was played in 1939, and it wasn’t until 1946 that international cricket resumed. This hiatus disrupted the continuity of the game and deprived fans of high-level competition. The absence of international matches also affected the development of players, who missed out on the experience and exposure that such games provide.
Despite the suspension of international cricket, domestic cricket in Australia continued, albeit in a limited capacity. State competitions like the Sheffield Shield were sporadically played, providing a platform for cricketers who were not involved in the war effort. These matches offered a semblance of normalcy and provided entertainment for the public during challenging times. However, the quality and competitiveness of these games were impacted by the absence of many top players.
Post-War Recovery: Late 1940s
The late 1940s marked a period of recovery and resurgence for Australian cricket following the end of World War II. The resumption of international cricket brought a renewed sense of enthusiasm and hope, as players and fans alike looked forward to the return of competitive cricket.
The resumption of international cricket saw Australia quickly re-establish itself as a dominant force. One of the most notable achievements during this period was the 1948 Ashes series in England, famously known as the “Invincibles” tour.
Under the captaincy of Don Bradman, the Australian team completed an undefeated tour, winning the Ashes series 4-0. The “Invincibles” demonstrated exceptional skill, teamwork, and sportsmanship, earning widespread acclaim and solidifying their place in cricket history.
The contributions of players like Keith Miller and Ray Lindwall were instrumental in revitalizing Australian cricket during this period. Keith Miller, a charismatic all-rounder, brought flair and versatility to the team. His explosive batting and effective bowling made him a key player in the post-war era. Miller’s ability to perform under pressure and his leadership qualities were invaluable to the team’s success.
Ray Lindwall, Signed Sports Card Unknown sourceUnknown source, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Ray Lindwall, one of the finest fast bowlers of his time, played a crucial role in the “Invincibles” tour. Known for his pace, accuracy, and ability to swing the ball, Lindwall consistently troubled the opposition batsmen.
The post-war period also saw the re-emergence of other talented players who had served in the military. Their experiences during the war had instilled a sense of resilience and determination, which they brought to the cricket field.
The camaraderie and unity among the players were evident, contributing to the team’s outstanding performances.
The Stats: Australian Stats between 1940 and 1950
During this time period, Australia played their first test against India and New Zealand. Overall, Australia played 18 tests, winning 14, losing 0 and drawing 4. 10 of these matches were against England (7/0/3), 5 against India (4/0/1), 2 against South Africa (2/0/0) and just the lone test against New Zealand (for a win).
Australia’s top 5 batsmen for this time period were:
DG Bradman : 15 Tests, 1903 runs; average of 105.72, 8 centuries, high score of 234
AR Morris : 16 Tests, 1474 runs; average of 67, 7 centuries, high score of 196
AL Hassett : 17 Tests, 1162 runs; average of 58.1, 4 centuries, high score of 198*
SG Barnes : 12 Tests, 998 runs; average of 66.53, 3 centuries, high score of 234
KR Miller : 18 Tests, 878 runs; average of 43.9, 1 century, high score of 141*
Australia’s top 5 bowlers for this time period were:
RR Lindwall : 17 Tests, 70 wickets; average of 19.17, 5 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 7/38
WA Johnston : 11 Tests, 54 wickets; average of 18.51, 2 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/44
KR Miller : 18 Tests, 48 wickets; average of 21.41, 2 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 7/60
ERH Toshack : 12 Tests, 47 wickets; average of 21.04, 4 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/29
IWG Johnson : 15 Tests, 41 wickets; average of 30.17, 1 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/42
Conclusion
This is the end of part two. Part three of the History of Cricket in Australia will follow, which will focus on the 50s, 60s and 70s.
Now, if you have any stories to tell about cricket during this time period, maybe some interesting stories about your youth playing all those years ago, please add your two shillings – now cents, as of 1966 – in the comments below.