New Zealand Cricket (NZC) took to social media to announce the demise of former legspinner Jack Alabaster, who passed away. night at the age of 93 in Cromwell, United Kingdom. NZC expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing Alabaster as a “champion of Southland and @OtagoCricket” who played 21 Tests for New Zealand from 1955 to 1972, taking 49 wickets at an average of 38.02.
Alabaster’s Cricketing Career
Alabaster is considered one of the best spinners to have represented New Zealand. During his 17-year international career, he was part of the team that achieved the country’s first four Test victories. Alabaster made 143 first-class appearances for Otago, claiming 500 wickets.
He toured several countries with the New Zealand team, including India and Pakistan in 1955-56, England in 1958, South Africa in 1961-62, and the West Indies in 1971-72. His standout performance came against South Africa, where he claimed 22 wickets in five Tests, helping New Zealand draw their first series against the Proteas.
Memorable Performances
In the first Test against South Africa, Alabaster claimed seven wickets, though New Zealand eventually suffered a 30-run defeat. In the third Test, he recorded his career-best match figures of 8/180, leading to New Zealand’s historic maiden Test win.
During the 1971-72 tour of the West Indies, Alabaster claimed the wicket of the legendary Garry Sobers. However, an Achilles tendon injury cut his tour short.
Alabaster’s contributions to New Zealand cricket and his status as one of the country’s finest spinners have cemented his legacy as a true cricketing great.
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