Ian Redpath, a former Australian opener, died at age of 83

An unfortunate day for Australian cricket is December 1, 2024, as Ian Redpath, a former player, died at the age of 83. Cricket Australia issued a press release with the regrettable news. Over the course of his 12-year career, Redpath amassed 4,737 Test runs at an average of 43.45. He recorded eight tons and thirty-one half-centuries during his long-format career.

Redpath missed a Test century on debut against South Africa in the second Test of the 1963-64 series by just three runs. He was later elevated to the position of vice-captain. In 1969, he scored his first ton against the West Indies.

Against Queensland, the homegrown superstar hit an incredible 261 in just his tenth First Class innings. After that, he played 226 games and scored 14,993 runs. Additionally, he made 211 catches throughout his time at FC.

Ian Redpath famously came out of retirement to play cricket in the World Series. However, he was discouraged from participating due to an injury he sustained. He coached the Victoria and Geelong Cricket Club after he eventually retired. In 1975, Redpath received a membership in the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire in recognition of his outstanding contributions to cricket.

Ian Redpath was a consistent member of the national squad: Baird

Mike Baird, the chairperson of Cricket Australia, expressed his admiration for Redpath and his deepest sympathies to his family.

“Everyone in Australian cricket is deeply upset by Ian’s departure, since he was a much-loved and respected figure. Ian was a terrific opening batsman who was a stalwart of the national team during one of the greatest periods in Australian cricket history. He was adored by people all over the world for his bravery, perfect sportsmanship, and sarcastic sense of humor.

When Ian was inducted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame in 2023, we had the honor of hearing him talk about the amazing relationships and experiences cricket had given him. His immense contribution to cricket at the First-Class and community levels was a testament to his profound passion for the game. “Everyone at Cricket Australia is sending their condolences to Ian’s family and many friends during this difficult time,” Baird said.

In January 2023, Redpath received the esteemed honor of becoming the 61st member of the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame.