Australian opening batsman who played 47 Tests and 51 ODIs between 1952 and 1961, known for his aggressive style and dominant partnerships with Neil Harvey.
Colin McDonald, born on November 17, 1928, was an Australian cricketer renowned for his exceptional batting skills, which earned him a successful career spanning over a decade. He played in 47 Test matches from 1952 to 1961 and 192 first-class matches between 1947 and 1963, making him a household name in the cricketing world.
McDonald made his Test debut in the 5th Test against West Indies at Sydney in January 1952, alongside fellow debutants George Thoms and Richie Benaud. This marked the beginning of his illustrious career, during which he formed a successful opening partnership with Jim Burke.
The 1958-59 Ashes series against England was a defining moment in McDonald's career, where he scored the most runs of any player in Test cricket in the calendar year of 1959. He reached his highest Test score, 170, in the 4th Test against England at Adelaide, although he was retired hurt for much of the second day.
McDonald was not only an exceptional batsman but also an able leader, having served as captain of Victoria in 1958-59 and 1960-61. His leadership skills and cricketing prowess made him a respected figure in the cricketing fraternity.
After retiring from Test cricket in 1961 due to a wrist injury, McDonald went on to pursue a successful career as an insurance broker, executive director of Tennis Australia, and an ABC cricket commentator in the 1960s and 1970s. He played a pivotal role in building the National Tennis Centre, now known as Rod Laver Arena.
McDonald came from a cricketing family, with his elder brother, Ian McDonald, playing first-class cricket for Victoria, and his mother's cousin, Keith Rigg, playing for Victoria and Australia. This family legacy in cricket had a significant impact on his own cricketing journey.
Colin McDonald's contributions to cricket are still remembered and revered today. His impressive batting record, leadership skills, and post-cricket career achievements have cemented his place as one of Australia's greatest cricketers. He passed away on January 8, 2021, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire future generations of cricketers.
Born in 1908
A cricket legend and iconic figure in Australian sports, renowned for his incredible batting skills and unbeaten record, earning him the nickname "The Don".
Born in 1877
A pioneering batsman and charismatic figure in early 20th-century cricket, known for his aggressive playing style and iconic photography capturing his dynamic movements.
Born in 1879
A dominant all-rounder and captain of the Australian cricket team, known for his aggressive batting style and innovative tactics that transformed the game. He was also a respected journalist, writing for several newspapers and magazines.
Born in 1877
A pioneering batsman and captain of the Australian cricket team, known for his aggressive playing style and record-breaking centuries. He was also a skilled engineer, designing and building several notable bridges in Australia.
Born in 1910
A dominant batsman of the 1920s and 1930s, renowned for his fearless and aggressive style, which earned him a reputation as one of the greatest batsmen of all time.
51 Years Old
Former Australian cricket team captain and one of the most successful batsmen in the history of the game, known for his aggressive playing style and exceptional leadership. He is now a respected commentator and cricket analyst.
48 Years Old
Australian sportsman who played cricket for New South Wales and football for the Eastern Suburbs club, known for his all-round skills and athletic prowess.
56 Years Old
A legendary Australian cricketer, coach, and sportscaster who revolutionized the sport with his unorthodox spin bowling style and charismatic on-field personality. He's a cricket icon and household name in Australia.
