Australian cricket legend Redpath dies

Ian Redpath, the Australian great renowned for his technical skill, courage, and patience at the crease, passed away at the age of 83 following a battle with illness on Saturday (November 30).

Redpath’s career spanned 66 Tests for Australia, from 1964 to 1976, during which he established himself as one of the most accomplished and respected opening batsmen.

His 4737 Test runs came at a solid average of 43.45, a remarkable achievement in an era where scoring runs was often difficult. Throughout his career, he scored eight centuries, with a highest score of 171 runs against England in Perth in 1970. He also holds the distinction of recording the most runs in a single over by an Australian in first-class cricket (32 runs).

Ian Redpath’s cricketing journey began in his hometown of Geelong, where he was educated at Newtown State School and Geelong College. His natural sporting talent extended beyond cricket to football, tennis, and athletics.

It was his Test debut in 1963-64 at the MCG against South Africa that marked the beginning of his distinguished international career. Opening the batting alongside fellow Victorian Bill Lawry, Redpath made an impressive 97.

His career also faced inconsistency, as he found himself in and out of the playing XI. Despite his promising debut, he had to fight for a permanent spot in the team. However, once he finally scored his first Test century 132 runs against the West Indies at the SCG in 1969. He became an indispensable member of the Australian team.

His achievements in first-class cricket were equally impressive. Across his career, he amassed nearly 15,000 runs, including 32 centuries and 84 half-centuries._Agencies