A renowned Australian test cricketer, Keith Stackpole, has passed away at the age of 84. Having a notable career between 1966 to 1974, Stackpole has played 43 Tests and 6 ODIS.
Stackpole, who began his career as a middle-order batter, was promoted to open in early 1969, teaming up with Bill Lawry.
Keith Stackpole recorded his first Test century against South Africa in Cape Town and coped up a score of 207 against England in the Gabba in 1970.
During 1972 Ashes, he was the leading run scorer amassing 485 runs at an average of 53.88.
Cricket Australia chair Mike Baird praised Keith’s contriubution to cricket, highlighted his exception playing career, his work in media and his mentorship of young players. He emphasised his lasting legacy and influence on the sport.
“Keith was one of the great contributors to the game of cricket and his legacy will live long into the future,” Cricket Australia chair Mike Baird said. “Not only was he an outstanding player for Australia and Victoria, his work in the media, radio and TV commentary and as a mentor to many players who followed in his footsteps demonstrated his enduring passion and influence in the game.”
His test career ended against New Zealand at Auckland in 1974, which began with him getting out to a full toss on the very first ball of the match.
“I only saw it a yard away from my head,” he later wrote. “I pulled out of the way, but the ball flicked the end of the bat and flew to first slip. Maybe it was the first time in Test cricket that a fellow was out first ball without the ball ever touching the ground!”
Keith Stackpole also featured in the first ever ODI in January 1971 where he claimed 3 for 40 at the MCG.
He was awarded an MBE in 1974 for services to cricket. He has 10,100 runs and 148 wickets in first-class cricket. He went onto become a prominent TV and radio commentator.
Cricket Victoria chair Ross Hepburn said: “Keith was a giant of the game – a brilliant cricketer, a passionate Victorian, and a proud Australian. His courage at the crease and his deep understanding of the game made him one of the most respected figures of his time.
“Keith was a true statesman of Victorian cricket. He played the game with great spirit and remained a devoted ambassador for cricket long after his playing days were over. His legacy will endure not only in the record books, but in the hearts of all Victorian cricket lovers,” concluded Cricket Victoria chair Ross Hepburn.
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