OTD – 1896 – Death of Australian opening batter Nat Thomson

On this day, September 2, 1896, cricket lost a pioneer of the game—Nathaniel Frampton David Thomson, more commonly known as Nat Thomson. A name that might not immediately ring a bell for many, yet he holds a unique place in cricket history. Nat Thomson was the first-ever batter to be dismissed in the annals of Test cricket, marking his legacy on the cricket field forever.

Born on May 29, 1839, in Sydney, New South Wales, Thomson’s cricketing journey was set against the backdrop of the sport’s early development. His most notable contribution to cricket came when he opened the innings for Australia in the first-ever Test match, played against England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in March 1877. This historic event marked the beginning of a new era in cricket, with Thomson at the forefront.

Thomson’s innings in that groundbreaking match was short-lived but memorable. Facing England’s bowler Allen Hill, Thomson managed to score just a single run before being clean-bowled, earning the distinction of being the first player ever dismissed in a Test match. While this might seem like an inauspicious start, it was the beginning of a story that would stretch over 147 years, with countless memorable moments and legendary players.

Nat Thomson left a legendary legacy

Thomson’s cricketing career, though brief, was filled with contributions that laid the groundwork for the future of Australian cricket. He played in only two Test matches, scoring 67 runs across four innings and contributing behind the stumps with three catches.

His first-class career was extended, featuring in 27 matches for New South Wales, where he amassed 705 runs, including three half-centuries, and played a crucial role as a wicketkeeper, taking 23 catches and executing seven stumping.

The first Test match in which Thomson played was more than just a historic event; it was a fiercely contested game that set the tone for the fierce rivalry between England and Australia. Australia, led by Dave Gregory, won the toss and opted to bat first, setting a respectable total of 245 runs. In response, England was bowled out for 196.

The Australians added another 104 runs in their second innings, setting England a target of 154 runs. However, the English side fell short, managing only 108 runs, handing Australia a 45-run victory in what would become a landmark moment in cricket history.

Nat Thomson’s life and career may not be as well-known as some of cricket’s other early figures, but his contribution to the game remains significant. His place in cricket history as the first batter to be dismissed in Test cricket ensures that his name will always be remembered, especially on the day of his passing.

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