Johnnie Walker ACA All*Star Teams of the Year - THIS ISSUE Ricky Ponting tribute Big Bash League update Masters wrap
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EDITION 32 MAY 2011 www.auscricket.com.au
Johnnie Walker
ACA All*Star
Teams of the
Year
THIS ISSUE
• Ricky Ponting tribute
• Big Bash League update
• Masters wrap
ACA ONSIDE MAY 2011 1
ACA Welcome
After the disappointment of the Ashes and World Cup,
Cricket Australia has committed to undertake a review
of Australian cricket’s high performance processes,
structures and systems in order to provide the best
chance of sustained future success.
Paul Marsh
CA should be complimented for recruiting a As CEO I couldn’t have been prouder of the Another ACA Masters season has concluded
review group comprising Don Argus, Malcolm current group of players in January when and once again we were able to promote
Speed, Allan Border, Mark Taylor and Steve they all banded together to donate in excess the game of cricket and raise money for
Waugh, and the ACA has been advised we of $190,000 from their own pockets for local communities in far flung areas across
will be formally involved in the review. victims of the floods in Queensland, Western the country. Our Masters players continue to
We have prepared for this review by meeting Australia and Victoria and the bushfires in be terrific ambassadors for the ACA and the
individually with various senior players, Western Australia. game of cricket and I thank all of them for
conducting a survey of all members and The efforts of the Queensland past and their continued support.
dedicating much of our February Executive present players, in particular, in helping out Our membership numbers have grown again
and Delegates meeting to discussing the their own was an inspiration to all at the ACA from last year’s record high of 949. At the
players’ view of the various issues that need and we have detailed some of what took time of writing we have reached 980 with a
to be addressed in order to return Australia to place within. few more still trickling in. We set ourselves a
the top of world cricket. With the end of the domestic season comes goal of reaching 1,000 this year and it will be
There is an overwhelming view from ACA the various individual and team awards and touch and go as to whether we get there this
members that there is no quick fix to the I take this opportunity to congratulate all year but regardless I thank all members for
current issues. They believe the major issues winners. Congratulations also to the Tigers, their support of the ACA again in 2010-11.
are systemic and as such the review needs to Bushrangers and Redbacks on their success in In finishing, the World Cup saw the end of
be focussed in this direction. Issues such as the respective domestic competitions. an era with Ricky Ponting stepping aside
coaching, selection, the quality and structure Congratulations also to the Southern Stars on as Australian Captain. Australian cricket
of our pathway competitions and the level their amazing come from behind win in the has been fortunate to have had such an
of co-operation between CA and its State one-off Ashes Test in January. Test matches outstanding leader at its helm for the past
Associations have all been identified by ACA are few and far between for our female nine years and I’m sure all members will join
members as priorities for the review. members and this match was of the highest me in congratulating Ricky on all he has
The ACA and our members welcome this tension and quality. Congratulations also to achieved.
review and expect it will contribute to the Breakers and Spirit on their success in the Michael Clarke was appointed as Ricky’s
returning Australia back to the top of world WNCL domestic competitions. successor and I wish Michael every success in
cricket. A special congratulations to Allan Border the role. Whilst he has a tough act to follow,
ACA and CA have been in ongoing Medallist Shane Watson who took out I’m certain he will do a terrific job.
negotiations around the next MOU and the Australian cricket’s highest individual honour Regards
rules, regulations and player payment model for a second consecutive year. PAUL MARSH
for the expanded Big Bash League. Congratulations to all other award winners Chief Executive
As has been publicly reported, negotiations presented at the Allan Border Medal, all those
between ACA and CA came to a standstill who made the Johnnie Walker ACA Teams
over two major issues we have been unable of the Year and all those who won the ACA
to resolve. At the time of writing both parties MVP Awards. Details on these awards are
have started talking again, however, the contained within.
issues remain unresolved.
Any negotiation of this nature will have
its difficulties, however ACA and CA have Benefits For Competition
historically been able to resolve major issues • Greater likelihood of competitive balance on an annual basis
in the past. I’m hopeful we’ll do so again in
• Greater interest in games as competition increases
this instance.
• Greatest interest delivers greater revenues
• More exciting games may spike viewership of televised games in
markets not currently served but with the economic potential to
support a Big Bash team. This could lead to future expansion.
• Industrial relations stability
• Decreased likelihood of legal challenges to system
by players
2 ACA ONSIDE MAY 2011
ACA pushes for free agency
With CA’s decision to expand the Big Bash League from six State teams to include a common salary cap, a set minimum
eight City teams from the start of the 2011-12 season, a new agreement retainer and no set maximum retainer.
It is important to note that this competition
covering the various player rules and regulations and a player payment
will be impacted by two major constraints in
model needed to be negotiated between CA and ACA. its initial years.
At the time of writing, negotiations were • Each squad will have Supplementary Lists Firstly, CA’s current domestic television rights
continuing, however, good progress had been of 6 players. These can be drawn upon if deal doesn’t expire until the end of the 2012-
made with the majority of key issues having replacement players are needed but their 13 season. As such, income from television
been resolved. major purpose is to increase the number of rights will not increase for the first two years
eligible players for the teams that qualify of the expanded competition. This will impact
The ACA’s major objectives from these player payments initially - which will in turn
negotiations were to secure a player allocation for the CLT20.
impact the quality of players (particularly
model of free agency, provide terms and • Two contracting periods - the first to take
those from overseas) who will play in the
conditions that would attract and retain place in July with an obligation for teams
competition.
players in the competition and to ensure the to contract a minimum of 14 players in this
competition would be appealing to fans. period and the second to conclude seven The second issue is the scheduling clash
days prior to the commencement of the between Big Bash and International cricket.
Despite the ongoing negotiations the ACA is For at least the first season, our Test players
event with lists of 18 to be finalised.
confident these objectives will largely be met. will not be available for the Big Bash. Beyond
• The competition will pay for re-location
We have reached agreement in principle this it is uncertain as to International player
expenses for any relevant domestic players
with CA on the following player rules and availability.
and the franchises will cover such costs for
regulations: The absence of star players is likely to impact
overseas players.
• Squad sizes of 18. the Big Bash in its formative years, however,
Player payment details will be subject to the
• Maximum of two overseas players in any in time we all hope that the competition
broader MOU negotiations and as such it
team or squad, however with the ability to will be successful enough to allow CA to
is premature to be communicating specific
replace such players should they become find a clear window for it so that there is no
numbers, however we expect the model to
unavailable at any time. scheduling clash.
Onside caught up with ACA Chief proposal and this was driven by our strong – the competition itself, players, teams and
Executive Paul Marsh to discuss his belief that market mechanisms operate to the fans. (This is re-produced in the table
thoughts on the structure of the new ensure that resources are allocated to where below.)
domestic Twenty20 competition. they are most valued. It’s important to note that free agency exists
Sixers, Scorchers, Renegades and Heat are When combined with a common salary cap, in some form in nearly every professional
among the names we’ll see in this new we are convinced that the free agency model sporting competition in the world. The model
venture but obviously there’s a lot more will best deliver the outcome of annually allows poorer performing teams to improve
to be worked through. What are the competitively balanced teams. in a relatively short period of time, helping
priorities for the ACA? the competition and teams to “sell hope” to
Why not a draft model as had been
To be successful the Big Bash needs a high fans and other stakeholders. They can recruit
proposed in some circles?
level of fan engagement. To achieve this, we according to their specific needs.
We strongly oppose a draft because our
believe the competition needs high quality research shows that this model neither Why would the ACA agree to a salary
home-grown and international players, provides an effective mechanism to deliver cap?
playing conditions and facilities that promote annual competitive balance nor does it in With the MOU revenue sharing agreement
attractive cricket and scheduling at an optimal anyway benefit players. There are also various model we currently have in place, players
time for fans and players. Importantly, the legal and conceptual issues with a draft. receive 26% of Australian Cricket Revenue.
league must also be competitively balanced This is distributed to all Australian and State
We will always have a problem with a model
on an annual basis with all eight teams a players and the Big Bash payments will come
that forces a player to play for a team he may
chance to win in any given year. from the same pool.
not want to play for. The ability to choose
How is competitive balance achieved? where you work should be a fundamental Given this model, and it is a model we
The ACA has negotiated hard for a player right of any employee. strongly believe in, it is important that we
allocation model of free agency combined position Big Bash player payments in such
What are the benefits of free agency?
with a common salary cap for all teams. a way that players are still motivated to
In the proposal we developed for CA, we
We have put a mountain of work into prioritise international cricket. A salary cap
outlined what we believed the benefits of
researching and developing a free agency helps us achieve that.
free agency would be for all key stakeholders
Benefits For Players Benefits For Teams Benefits For Fans
• Greater self-determination • Greater revenues due to competitively balanced • More exciting games as each team has the
• Greater potential to play for competition potential to win
a winning team both through • More competitive games, thus greater interest and • May not have to wait extensive periods for
movement to another team and higher attendance for all clubs their team to excel
greater competitiveness of team • Ability to quickly improve the team from year to year • More off-season intrigue through player
• Ability to maximise salary • Opportunity to fill specific holes in their squads with proven movement mechanisms
• Potential to play for team players without competitors’ involvement or consent • Knowledge that each player actually is playing
with best personal and • Ability to consider team dynamics and put together the for the team of his choice and therefore
professional fit players that work best together wants to play for the fans’ team
ACA ONSIDE MAY 2011 3
Johnnie Walker ACA
Caption
All*Star Teams of the Year
At the State Cricket Awards held at Bellerive Oval in Hobart the 2010-11 Johnnie
Walker Australian Cricketers’ Association (ACA) All*Star Teams for the Interstate Four-
Day, One-Day and Twenty20 competitions were announced.
Johnnie Walker ACA All*Star Johnnie Walker ACA All*Star Johnnie Walker ACA All*Star
Interstate Four-Day Team of the Year Interstate One-Day Team of the Year Interstate Twenty20 Team of the Year
1. Wesley Robinson WA 1. Ed Cowan TAS 1. Daniel Harris SA
2. Shaun Marsh WA 2. Aaron Finch VIC 2. Aaron Finch VIC
3. Usman Khawaja NSW 3. Brad Hodge VIC 3. Shaun Marsh WA
4. Mark Cosgrove TAS 4. George Bailey (c) TAS 4. James Hopes (vc) QLD
5. Robert Quiney VIC 5. Marcus North (vc) WA 5. George Bailey (c) TAS
6. James Hopes (c) QLD 6. Daniel Christian SA 6. Kieron Pollard SA
7. Graham Manou SA 7. Matthew Wade VIC 7. Ben Rohrer NSW
8. Luke Butterworth TAS 8. Brett Lee NSW 8. Luke Ronchi WA
9. Nathan Hauritz (vc) NSW 9. Brendan Drew TAS 9. Nathan Lyon SA
10. Peter Siddle VIC 10. Xavier Doherty TAS 10. Stuart Clark NSW
11. Trent Copeland NSW 11. Ben Edmondson SA 11. Patrick Cummins NSW
12th man Andrew McDonald VIC 12th man Adam Voges WA 12th man Daniel Christian SA
Tasmanian skipper George Bailey capped an consistency throughout the season. Thanks “To make the Team of Year is unbelievable,
outstanding season to be named captain of once again to the wonderful support shown I’m over the moon.”
both the Interstate One-Day and Twenty20 from Johnnie Walker and the ACA.” The paceman will have a chance to further
teams. Teenage paceman Patrick Cummins, in his his development in the Champions League
“It is always special to be recognised by your debut season, underlined his impressive start Twenty20 later in the year.
peers and the members of the ACA Teams at interstate level by making the Twenty20 “I’ve never played on the subcontinent, so it
of the Year should be justly proud of their side. will be a great challenge to bowl over there
achievements,” he said. “I was thrilled to play just one game so against some pretty formidable batsmen,”
“All three teams are very strong, so to to play as many as I did was more than I he said.
be named Captain of two of them is an could’ve dreamed of,” he said.
honour and probably reflective of Tasmania's
Peter Siddle, George Bailey & Patrick Cummins
4 ACA ONSIDE MAY 2011
Ricky Ponting, take a bow
Tributes have flowed for Ricky Ponting after his decision to stand down
as Australian captain following the team’s World Cup campaign.
Since taking over the reins from Steve Waugh Darren Lehmann: ACA Chief Executive Paul Marsh also paid
in both the One-Day (2002) and Test (2004) “He gave so much to me and the team as a tribute to Ponting.
formats, Ponting led the sides with distinction player and supported us in all facets. I loved “Ricky is one of the best players to have
and success. the way he led us and the current team for represented Australia and deserves all of the
His world record for the most wins in Test so long, and his record is second-to-none accolades that he has received over his long
(48) and One-Day (164) cricket underlines his as a captain and player. career,” he said.
enormous contribution. “He is comfortably our best player since “His achievements as captain – including the
Steering Australia to two ICC Cricket World Bradman. I’m sure he will continue to play most victories in both Tests and ODI’s – bear
Cups in 2003 and 2007, two ICC Champions with the same pride and success as he has in testimony to his leadership, determination and
Trophies in 2006 and 2009, the first Ashes the coming period and I hope he now has a endurance. He has led a rebuilding team with
whitewash in 86 years, a record-equalling 16 bit more time to spend with his family.” distinction and is a revered figure by players
consecutive Test victories and a phenomenal Andy Bichel: right throughout Australia, beyond those
overall winning percentage speak volumes for who’ve shared a dressing room with him.
"A good bloke, brilliant batsman and as a
his contribution. “He has been a focussed and thoughtful
captain was prepared to give blokes a fair
In many cases, he has emphatically ‘led from go - not to mention the fact that he has an leader off the field as well, always concerned
the front’, such as his peerless 140 in the awesome record. with what has been best for the collective
2003 World Cup final and as recently as the playing group rather than himself.
“I was very lucky to play in the same team
quarter final of this year’s tournament where “I would love nothing more than to see Ricky
as Ricky. He was a devastating batsman for
his fighting ton was again the cornerstone of continue to perform at his best and help his
many years and still is, a special someone
the Australian innings. successor steer the team back to the top of
that would have been hard to bowl at when
Many of those who played under Ponting he was in a destructive mood. I enjoyed a world cricket standings.”
were effusive in their praise. very successful time playing with Ricky and
we share some great memories. I wish him Ricky Ponting as Test and ODI Captain
only the best of luck and happiness for
Games Win Loss Draw % Won
the remainder of his playing career and
the years that follow.” Tests 77 48 16 13 62.33
ODI 228 164 50 14* 76.38
(*denotes 2 Ties)
Source: CA statistician Ross Dundas
ACA ONSIDE MAY 2011 5
Masters players with Milo in2CRICKET kids, Darren Lehmann
ACA Masters finish on a high
The ACA Masters finished season 2010-11 on a high with was a crowd favourite while Matthew Elliott
a resounding win over the Central Coast Cricket Association looked as comfortable as ever at the batting
crease.
in Wyong recently.
The ACA Masters took on their New Zealand
counterparts in a lively match in Hamilton,
NZ in February. The match, televised live
Skipper Greg Ritchie was more than pleased in the wicket preparation while spin guru Terry on Fox Sports saw former greats like Craig
with the result, which ensured he would Jenner - who played for Moonta in the 1970’s McDermott, Andy Bichel and Brad Hogg
take an unbeaten record (one win) into next – and ABC commentator Roger Wills were take on Stephen Fleming, Dion Nash and
season. Greg Matthews’ five wicket haul was other spectators in one of the many marquees Mark Greatbatch. Ryan Campbell’s 89 off 52
a highlight. flanking the oval. Ryan Campbell skippered balls was a standout for the ACA Masters,
The opening tour for the season proved the side to a much needed victory. although Greatbatch and Bryan Young
fruitful for Jimmy Maher, who revelled in The ACA Masters were outclassed against the combined to swing the game the home side’s
his home State to compile a crisp century combined side from the Australian Country way. All profits from the match went to the
in Gympie. This was only the second ton in Cricket Championships in Bunbury. However, Christchurch Earthquake Relief Fund.
the three-year history of the Masters, but the tour marked the Masters debut for Merv The 2010-11 ACA Masters season was again
unfortunately the bowlers couldn’t quite Hughes, who noted that, ”there’s a fine line a great success overall, with the matches,
match this level of performance and a narrow between warm-up and fatigue!” after his youth scholarships, sportsman’s nights, Milo
loss was recorded. This followed a similar opening spell. in2CRICKET clinics and various community
result in Bundaberg a couple of days prior. Unfortunately, the match in Alice Springs as engagement activities well received. The
The game at Port Pirie, South Australia, saw part of the Imparja Cup was washed out as program continues to be a wonderful
former Australian spinners Peter Sleep and the effects of Cyclone Yasi made their way to promotional tool for cricket throughout
Dan Cullen in Masters colours for the first Central Australia. regional Australia. It provides members with
time, alongside fellow tweakers Matthews The Victorian tour was marked by a stark a vehicle for keeping in touch with the game
and Brad Young – who blasted six 6s and four contrast in weather conditions. The Ballarat and other former players whilst making a
4s in his innings of 70. match was warmly supported but the mercury strong contribution to the community.
On the same tour, the match at Moonta barely reached double figures. Mick Lewis The ACA greatly appreciates the support
featured a celebrity curtain raiser, including was dispatched over long off from the first provided by our key partners in the Masters:
many current and former Adelaide Crows ball of the home side’s innings, but Jo Angel’s Choice Hotels, Milo and also appreciates the
players, and some legendary cricket figures fine spell netted four wickets. Ballarat was assistance of State Associations through their
were in attendance. Former Adelaide Oval too good, but the Masters returned to the regional cricket managers and CA.
curator Les Burdett had provided his expertise winners’ list in Mildura. Local lad Mark Cleary
Masters team members
6 ACA ONSIDE MAY 2011
Fiona McDonald
Fiona finds feet
Beyond the Boundary
SA Scorpions all-rounder and aspiring lawyer Fiona
McDonald was a member who recently participated in the
ACA’s Beyond the Boundary program and offered some
feedback on her experience (see letter, left).
Beyond the Boundary is part of the ACA’s
Professional Development Program and
focuses on providing current playing
members with work experience opportunities
in a range of different environments outside
the sport. This supports the ACA’s strong
commitment to the off-field development of
its members, and a significant focus is on a
smooth career transition from professional
sport to a satisfying post playing career.
The ACA engages Infront Sports Consulting
to roll out Beyond the Boundary. They are
specialist providers of elite athlete career
development and transition services.
Players interested in getting involved in the
Beyond the Boundary program can contact
Ben Smith at the ACA on 03 9698 7216 or
bsmith@auscricket.com.au.
If you are a host company interested in
participating in the program please call Erin
Devlin 0403 212 761 or Michael Bokody
0405 735 131 at Infront Sports Consulting.
ACA ONSIDE MAY 2011 7
Past & present Queensland players assist with flood recovery
Cricketers go into
bat for disaster relief
clubs as far afield as Gold Coast and Sunshine
Australian and State cricketers provided an enormous Coast who turned up to help throughout the
broader south east region.
response to the flood and bushfire disasters throughout
“The ACA generously provided funds for a
the country over the summer. generator, which was invaluable in running
machinery like power cleaners and blowers.
We were also concerned about feeding all the
volunteers but food came from everywhere:
They donated money and signed playing shirts Dawes was able to assemble a working party
sausage sizzles on the backs of utes; girls
for auction, visited some of the communities of current and former players to help some of
too little to help with the clean-up delivered
affected and in many cases actively helped on those affected by the deluge.
cupcakes up and down the street; and Ryan
the ground in areas hit hard by the disasters. One of those was Bulls quick Scott Walter, Broad’s wife provided about 40 pizzas free
Australian players donated match payments, who contacted Dawes to get some assistance. of charge through her work at Domino’s. We
with players from all State squads following “When we got to Scotty’s place, the section were so grateful for all of it.
suit and donating varying amounts of money underneath the house was already waist deep “One of the moments that stands out for
to help those affected across the country. in water – and this was a day or two before me was late on the second day when a
ACA President Michael Kasprowicz made a the waters were expected to peak,” Dawes young couple returned to their unit, which
presentation to the Queensland Premier’s said. was completely submerged. The girl was
Disaster Relief Appeal of $140,000 on behalf “We gathered as much furniture as we could, sobbing and initially we thought they hadn’t
of all the players and the ACA during an ODI which we transported to Queensland Cricket been home when the chaos hit and she was
against England. This total was made up of headquarters, who had generously given us overwhelmed by the devastation. It turned out
the match fees of the Australian players as some space for storage. the main cause of her distress was that she’d
well as those of players from South Australia, lost her grandmother’s jewellery. A group of
A former teammate of Dawes, champion
Tasmania and New South Wales – who our guys started searching in the darkness
batsman Martin Love, was also among those
donated match fees from Big Bash games. The throughout their place and miraculously
to get hit. The lower level of Love’s house
ACA also contributed to this total. managed to locate a bag containing the
in Brisbane’s southern suburbs was virtually
Over and above the $140,000 donation, gutted before Dawes’ gumboot and mop missing jewellery. The girl collapsed with
players from the other three States donated army arrived to help with the painstaking emotion. It was just one memory of many I’ll
money for victims of the Queensland and clean-up. never forget.”
Victorian floods and the bushfire recovery on
“I got the call from Lovey at 4.30am the
the outskirts of Perth.
next morning. I made some calls myself and
"
All up the collective player group donated by 5.30am there were 15 or 16 people at
in excess of $190,000 to the victims of the his place. The response was amazing. There We gathered as much
disasters. were current players like Ben Cutting and
Members of the Australian team visited Chris Simpson, as well as former players like furniture as we could,
Goodna, a suburb of Ipswich, while Australian Jimmy Maher and Darren Lehmann – who was
and State cricketers rattled tins at grounds staying with Mahbo at the time. Incredibly, which we transported
throughout the Twenty20 Internationals and Scott Walter was there with three of his family
Commonwealth Bank ODI Series. members, ready to return the favour. to Queensland Cricket
For Joe Dawes, the impact of the floods was “Along with Terry Oliver and his wife, we headquarters, who had
close to home. The former Queensland quick put together a plan to make the best use
currently works as the Bulls’ bowling coach of the working party, whose numbers had generously given us some
"
and Player Development Manager. It was the grown to about 50. In fact, the support was
latter role – and his previous experience as so overwhelming we sent teams of people to space for storage.
a policeman - that came to the fore when help out Lovey’s neighbours as well. People’s
the floods hit and ‘troops’ needed to be willingness to assist was incredible. There
mobilised. were about 120 grade cricketers from various
8 ACA ONSIDE MAY 2011
Where are they now?
Geoffrey Forsaith played just the one first-class game
but his involvement in cricket has been life-long.
What work were you pursuing during cricketing circles, and it has produced many
your cricket career, and what have you strong friendships. When the ACA was
been doing since? formed it provided an ideal base for me to
After completing a Science degree at WA continue these friendships and be updated on
University I commenced working in the the state of the game.
Insurance Broking industry in 1952, later The annual lunches at Test matches are also
specialising in aviation insurance. I moved most enjoyable. Last year I visited Perth for the
family and home to Sydney in 1963 where Ashes Test and it was a reunion of sorts. It was
business prospects were better. I then shifted great to meet so many cricketers I had played
to Queensland in 1981 and now live in with or against during the 1950s and 60s.
Brisbane. Although semi-retired, I still dabble It is also encouraging to know that players
in my chosen profession. who may not be travelling too well can
Thanks for taking the time to talk to us In 1978 I was asked to be a member of the be helped by the ACA through the Player
Geoff. Can you give our readers a little World Series Cricket Governing Committee Hardship Fund. For this reason alone I would
background on your cricket career? and was appointed Manager of the Australian ensure I retain my membership.
team for the two years WSC was active. Finally, I feel that because cricket has been such
I played first grade club cricket for 18 years
with University in Perth and Gordon in Sydney. What was your motivation for taking the a big influence on my life I should continue
I was honoured to be selected in University’s roles? my interest in the game and encourage other
Team of the 20th century, and was recently Initially I was honoured and thrilled when players to do so. I still try to find the time to
awarded Life Membership at the club. asked to be involved in WSC, as I felt my attend matches played at the Gabba.
Unfortunately my medium pacers failed to impress enthusiasm for the game had provided me What are your thoughts on the current
the selectors, so I only played the one first-class with the opportunity to be involved with state of the game? Is it heading in the right
game for WA against New Zealand. Although an innovational project headlined by 23 of direction with the mix between Country
I was a part of WA’s State Practice squad from Australia’s leading cricketers. When we had Vs Country Test and ODI matches and the
1957 to 1962 – the WACA didn’t have a 2nd XI difficulty finding a Manager for the Australian emergence of Club Twenty20 competitions
or development squad in those days. Team and I was asked if I was available, I had (i.e. the new Big Bash, IPL, etc)?
no hesitation in accepting. I felt I could carry I prefer to leave the organisation of the game
What are your fondest memories of your out the managerial tasks due to previous
time as a player in that era? to the ICC and Cricket Australia, but I must
player friendships made off the field. admit it’s sometimes hard to get enthusiastic
Playing against the Black Caps stands out
because of the nature of the occasion. I even What was the mood amongst the players about Twenty20.
snaffled two wickets courtesy of Keith Slater’s at the time? I do long though, for a return of crowds
bucket hands at backward square. Aside All the players were in very good spirits and to Sheffield Shield cricket. There is some
from that, winning four premierships with excited to be involved in a new project, an fantastic cricket played in this competition
University is a highlight. extension of playing cricket for their country and it is deserving of more than the pathetic
at the highest level. The fact they were number of spectators that do attend.
Likewise my final two seasons with Gordon,
finally being satisfactorily rewarded for their
where I played under the captaincy of the
efforts was a bonus. I think that all of the
legendary Sid Carroll.
players respected the Packer cooperative
Player earnings have risen steadily in the input instead of the ACB’s control. They were
last 13 years since the introduction of the absolutely helpful, dedicated and behaved
ACA. What were your earnings per game accordingly. They participated in WSC
back in your era? marketing projects and it was obvious that
I still have a copy of a letter from the WACA they enjoyed their cricket. They had great
which advised me of selection. It notes my support from their captain Ian Chappell.
match allowance was a whopping £2 per Could you sense the significance of what
day. I suspect contracts are a little different was taking place in the broader context
now. It is interesting to note that when the of cricket? Could the players?
massive change to players’ salaries came
Personally I did not sense any significant
with the advent of World Series Cricket in
change, although the advent of lights and
1978, the average payment to a player was
night cricket was a big influence. The physical
approximately $30,000 for the season.
side of the game did not appear to change.
Which players from your era would
You have been a great supporter of ACA
have adapted best to the game’s newest
membership. What is it that encourages
format, Twenty20?
you to remain an ACA member?
Keith Miller, Neil Harvey, Norman O’Neill and
My family ensured I had an absorbing
Doug Walters – although it’s hard to imagine
passion for cricket, and I’ve always enjoyed
them amongst the histrionics of the IPL.
discussions about all aspects of the game
None of them would have needed the reverse (both on and off the field). This interest has
sweep either! never waned. I’ve always been involved in
Ian Chappell
ACA ONSIDE MAY 2011 9
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fitness and have felt my wellbeing slide,” Nutritionist, Matt O’Neill was, “… just the
reported former Queensland player Michael nudge I needed to get back into the game. Enter Voucher Code – MJCACA – in your
Sippel before he registered for Metabolic I feel I’ve got more energy, have lost 5 cms online Profile (not the shopping cart) so you
Jumpstart. off my waist. I’m enjoying walking around don’t pay.
picking my pants up all the time.” All registrations are confidential. If you have
Metabolic Jumpstart is being offered to all any queries or difficulties registering, email
ACA Members as part of our commitment admin@metabolicjumpstart.com.
to member wellness. It’s a benefit, valued Get the Jumpstart we all need
at $80, which includes Matt’s metabolically
matched diet plan, report, 4-week program With colder weather on the way, Metabolic
and club membership. Jumpstart is a great opportunity for you and
your partner to avoid winter weight gain and
feel fantastic.
Michael Sippel
Skin Cancer Checks Matt O'Neill
Despite a wet summer with seemingly more rain than sun in many
parts of the country, the free skin cancer checks continued to be front
of mind for many members, and were again a key health and wellbeing
service offered by the ACA’s Professional Development Program.
Some 332 members attended a Skin Patrol There was limited knowledge among times a year. This way, should a change
Early Detection clinic in February and March members about the types of skin cancer occur in a lesion the individual is aware and
of this year. and the importance of self-checking. Many can seek medical advice immediately. They
members indicated that they were concerned also recommend an annual skin check by a
Key Statistics for ACA Members about skin cancer but had little knowledge of medical practitioner.
The doctor diagnosed 34 members requiring how to self-check and therefore were not in The ACA will continue to provide this
further consultation from a dermatologist. the habit of doing so. free service and invest in other health and
Of these, 15 were diagnosed as requiring Skin Patrol recommends that people get to wellbeing initiatives.
further treatment of at least one lesion. know their own skin by self-checking four
10 ACA ONSIDE MAY 2011Memorable Match:
Sheffield Shield Final 1985-86
Following Tasmania’s tight five-day struggle to secure the Sheffield Shield
recently against New South Wales, we go back in time to look at an epic
Shield final in the summer of 1985-86. Onside caught up with the skipper
of the NSW side, Dirk Wellham, and Queensland century maker Glenn
Trimble to get their reflections on what was a memorable match.
In just the fourth Shield final since its At 6/149 in reply, Queensland held the upper
inception in 1982-83, New South Wales hand until some sound rear-guard resistance
was up against Queensland. In the previous by Waugh and Dyer saw them pass the
season’s finale, NSW’s last wicket pair of Peter follow-on, squeezing out 294.
Clifford and David Gilbert had put on 14 runs With a deficit of 142 on a wicket slowing
to wrench the title away from the still Shield- up and spinning increasingly, NSW strangled
less Queensland. the Queensland second innings. A stuttering
“Both teams had players unavailable due to 7/133 off 46 overs was not the plan, but a
Australian commitments,” Wellham said. lead of 275 was still significant.
“We were missing Steve Waugh, Greg “In our second innings I remember going in
Matthews and David Gilbert, and Queensland at four to get quick runs so we could declare
was without Allan Border, Craig McDermott with enough time to have a go at bowling
and Greg Ritchie. them out. I think I got run out without facing
“That added to the intrigue because it meant a ball and we just couldn’t seem to get the
many inexperienced players were involved. runs moving,” Trimble said.
We had seven players in just their first Shield It is interesting to note that Taylor took 4/31
season: Mark Taylor, Mark Waugh, Mark in this innings, in just his third first-class
O'Neill, Rod Bower, Peter Taylor, Steve Small match and a full 22 months before being
and Greg Dyer. picked to make his celebrated Test debut.
“Apart from Mike Whitney, our pace Maybe it wasn’t that left-field a Test selection
bowling stocks were low, so much so that after all!
Mark Waugh opened the bowling and his Jeff Thomson, in his final year of first-class
Bankstown teammate Bower bowled first cricket, again bowled first change for
change, even though he’d rarely bowled at Queensland. While not quite at the fearful
even club level prior to the final. Our strength pace of his peak, Thomson still managed to
lay in three quality spinners: Bob Holland, be the competition’s leading wicket-taker for
Ian Chappell
Murray Bennett and the emerging Peter the season, taking 42 wickets at 31.
Taylor.” Taylor, Small and Wellham started well, and at
Queensland won the toss and took the 2/115 things were going as planned for NSW.
advantage of batting first on a wicket that Taylor’s 30 runs made him the highest run-
was going to wear, with the unlikely Bower scorer for the season with 903 at 53.
claiming the first wicket for the match. Kepler A collapse triggered by the slow right-arm
Wessels was immovable, however, and he mediums of Wessels - as well as two run-outs
dominated the first day. Glenn Trimble played - almost proved fatal but not for the resistant
an attacking role against the NSW spin trio Peter Taylor. Taylor’s 42 was coincidentally the
and their partnership of 179 saw Queensland same score as he made on his Test debut at
finish with 436. Whitney's 6/65 from 34 overs the same ground.
was inspirational for the NSW team.
“We only had two wickets remaining and
Trimble’s knock continued a great season about 30 runs to get, it was getting gloomy
where he made 531 runs at 38 and took 25 Dirk Wellham
and still half an hour from stumps on the fifth
wickets at 27. day,” Wellham said.
He recalls some key aspects of the match For Trimble and the vanquished Queensland
“Both teams had played hard-fought team, the wait for the elusive title continued.
vividly. first-class cricket over five tough days and
“Mike (Whitney) was really fired up on the wouldn’t give an inch. It was a very tense “It was a great game, it was aggressive, we
first day and he just kept charging in every finish but Murray Bennett and Bob Holland just ran out of time on the last day and it was
spell,” he said. managed to hang on for a draw to win us the deflating after feeling on top for most of the
Shield.” game,” he said.
“Kepler played just sensationally - he was
a real rock, so determined. It was a great
"
battle.”
We only had two wickets remaining and about
30 runs to get, it was getting gloomy and still
half an hour from stumps on the fifth day.
"
ACA ONSIDE MAY 2011 11Awards
With season 2010-11 complete, the
ACA extends its warm congratulations
to the award winners listed below.
Contacts
Chief Executive Officer
Paul Marsh
pmarsh@auscricket.com.au
Manager Cricket Operations &
Membership
Peter Roach
ACA MVP Awards proach@auscricket.com.au
Overall International MVP WNCL MVP Legal Counsel
Shane Watson Kris Britt Michael Abrahams
Women’s International MVP Weet-Bix Sheffield Shield MVP mabrahams@auscricket.com.au
Shelley Nitschke Luke Butterworth
National Professional
Test MVP Ryobi One Day Cup MVP Development Manager
Mitchell Johnson Daniel Christian Ben Smith
ODI MVP KFC Big Bash MVP bsmith@auscricket.com.au
Shane Watson Daniel Harris
Manager Events & Commercial
T20 MVP Women’s Twenty20 MVP Services
David Hussey Karen Rolton
Sarah Mitchell
Overall Interstate MVP smitchell@auscricket.com.au
Daniel Christian
Communications Manager
Eivion Bowen
ebowen@auscricket.com.au
Office Manager
Gabrielle Bortoli
gbortoli@auscricket.com.au
Johnnie Walker ACA Player of the Month Awards
March – James Hopes (Queensland) Events & Communications
February - George Bailey & Luke Butterworth (Tasmania) Coordinator
Sharn Best
January - Daniel Harris (South Australia)
sbest@auscricket.com.au
December - Nathan Hauritz (New South Wales)
November - Chris Swan (Queensland) Administration Assistant
October - Brad Hodge (Victoria) Megan Fedke
admin@auscricket.com.au
Australian Cricketers’ Association Inc.
Other Awards
Level 1, 2 Ross Place
Allan Border Medal PO Box 395
Shane Watson South Melbourne VIC 3205
Phone: 03 9698 7200
Test Player of the Year
Shane Watson Fax: 03 9698 7299
Web: www.auscricket.com.au
One-Day International Player of the Year
Shane Watson Email: info@auscricket.com.au
Twitter: @ACA_Players
Twenty20 Player of the Year
David Hussey
Photos courtesy of Getty Images,
Women’s International Cricketer of the Year Queensland Cricket & South Australian
Shelley Nitschke Cricket Association
State Player of the Year
Usman Khawaja
Bradman Young Cricketer of the Year
Trent Copeland
12 ACA ONSIDE MAY 2011You can also read
