Description

Hardback with dustwrapper, almost 300 pages. Len Johnson from Rockhampton is on the front cover

ABOUT THIS BOOK: Their fame was fleeting, but they are forever remembered among Australian cricket’s deity. They are the game’s elite: Test match cricketers. It’s an exclusive, prestigious club, the mightiest of all. It opens doors and starts conversations. Whether you have played one Test or one hundred; it matters little. You’re in Wisden, forever.

Fifteen Minutes of Fame is a tribute to Australia’s 70 ‘one Test wonders’, from ‘The Bull’ Harry Alexander to the Tasmanian Shaun Young.

All bless themselves at their opportunity. But some are more fortunate than others. Ken Meuleman’s Test week in Wellington lasted eight hours and he was bowled for a fourth ball duck. And, at the time, he didn’t even know he was playing in a Test.,

Fellow Victorian Dr Bert Hartkopf’s Test went for a full seven days. He made 80 and still was dropped.

Harry Musgrove, a theatrical entrepreneur, was in Ballarat for Christmas at a grand opening of one of his shows. The English cricketers happened to be in town for a match against the local XXII from Boxing Day. Would he like to play? He scored a century and a week later found himself in Australia’s Test team. He’d played just once for Victoria, years earlier.

Ken Eastwood’s Test was notable for him having to hitch a ride to the Sydney Cricket Ground. He was given two baggy greens to try on and was never asked to hand one back.

Bryce McGain had always dreamed of making a century for Australia: he never thought his would come off 11 overs.

Every cricketer has a story, especially those who played only once.

All agree they happened to be in the right place at the right time.

“A superb production….’ DAVID FRITH