On this day former Australian cricketer and coach Greg Chappel made his debut in test cricket against the arch-rivals England at Perth. He announced his arrival with a brilliant century and showed everyone what he was capable of. His century was significant in Australia being the dominant team in a match that ended in a draw.
First Innings
The English team batted first in the match and put on a solid batting display to challenge the Australian bowling attack. England made 397 runs courtesy of a century from Brian Luckhurst and a half-century from Geoffrey Boycott.
The Kangaroos could not get off to a decent start and English bowlers were successful in getting rid of three Australian batters even before they could add 20 runs in their innings. The Australian team had already lost five wickets for 107 runs when the debutant Greg Chappel joined Ian Redpath in the middle. The duo completely changed the course of their game with a wonderful partnership that brought Australia back into the game. Both batters completed their century and pushed the English team on the back foot in the first innings.
Eventually, Australia made 440 runs in the first innings because of the heroics of Ian Redpath and Greg Chappel with the bat. Redpath scored 171 runs whereas Greg Chappel made 108 runs and impressed everyone with his gritty outing.
Second Innings
The English were impressive with the bat in the second innings as well and gave a tough time to the Australian bowlers. They put up 287 runs at the loss of 6 wickets and set 245 runs as the target for the Aussies to chase in the second innings. There was not enough time in the match for Australia to chase down the total or for England to wrap up the Australian innings and clinch the game. This match would be remembered for a fighting display from a youngster who took on the opposition when the team was reeling under pressure.