The world of cricket is in mourning as Australian legend and Hall of Famer Ian Redpath passed away at the age of 83. Redpath, a stalwart of the Australian Test team in the 1960s and 70s, leaves behind a legacy that will forever be etched in the annals of cricketing history.
A Career Defined by Longevity and Resilience
Born in Geelong, Victoria, Redpath’s journey to cricketing greatness began with a debut Test match against South Africa at the MCG in 1964. Though he fell just short of a century, scoring 97 runs, it was a sign of the tenacity and skill that would come to define his career.
Redpath went on to play 66 Tests for Australia, amassing 4,737 runs at an impressive average of 43.45. His career was marked by a remarkable eight centuries, showcasing his ability to dig deep and deliver when it mattered most.
Defying the Odds
What set Redpath apart was his longevity in an era when most cricketers hung up their boots by the age of 30. He defied expectations, playing well into his 30s and even making a comeback with World Series Cricket after a brief retirement to focus on his antique business in Geelong.
“I was fortunate enough to play for quite a while. In an era where most chaps retired at 30, I had the good fortune of being able to extend it.”
– Ian Redpath on his cricketing longevity
The Immovable Object
Redpath’s batting style was a testament to his unwavering focus and iron-clad defense. Renowned for his ability to weather even the fiercest bowling attacks, he earned the respect of teammates and opponents alike.
As former Australian captain Greg Chappell once noted, Redpath was one of the hardest men in Australia to dismiss. His refusal to be tempted into a loose shot often left bowlers frustrated, a fact English quick John Snow knew all too well.
A Moment Missed
For all his cricketing prowess, Redpath’s career was not without its lighter moments. In a 1972 match against Pakistan at the MCG, he hit a rare six, one of only three in his entire Test career.
“I must have had a touch of the sun and I managed to lob one over wide mid-on. It was where the players sat. It lobbed about two rows from where my wife was sitting. I am out in the middle flexing my muscles, and there she is, looking the other way, talking about an upcoming shopping expedition, and she missed the whole lot.”
– Ian Redpath on his wife missing his rare six
A Legacy Remembered
Redpath’s impact on Australian cricket extended well beyond his playing days. He went on to coach Victoria and remained heavily involved in Geelong cricket, nurturing the next generation of talent.
His induction into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame in 2023 was a fitting testament to a career that embodied the very best of the sport – skill, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to the craft.
As we bid farewell to Ian Redpath, we remember not just a cricketer, but a true icon whose legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. In the words of Cricket Australia chair Mike Baird:
“As a fine opening batter, Ian was a mainstay of the national team through one of the great eras of Australian cricket and beloved by many throughout the world for his courage, impeccable sportsmanship and wry humour.”
– Cricket Australia chair Mike Baird
Rest in peace, Ian Redpath. Your legacy lives on in the hearts of cricket lovers everywhere.
