This week, Australia bid farewell to Ian "Redda" Redpath, a celebrated cricketer and cherished teammate, who passed away at the age of 83. Redpath, a Geelong College alumnus, left an indelible mark on Australian cricket through his resilience, versatility, and unyielding commitment to the sport.
The Journey Begins
Redpath’s cricketing career commenced with a bang as he represented Victoria in 92 first-class matches, amassing 6,103 runs, including an impressive 261 in just his tenth innings against Queensland in February 1962. His Test debut came on New Year’s Day during the 1963–64 series against South Africa. Opening the batting alongside Bill Lawry, the duo built a remarkable 219-run partnership before Redpath was bowled out on 97.
Interestingly, Redpath initially played as an amateur, refusing match fees in his early Tests to maintain eligibility in the Victorian Amateur Football Association (VAFA), where he excelled in Australian Rules football. However, his amateur status ended during the 1964 Ashes when he accepted a match fee, though the VAFA reinstated his permit decades later in August 2024.
A Player of Substance
Known affectionately as “Redders,” Redpath began as a fluent stroke-maker, but later became renowned for his patience and impeccable technique. His transformation culminated in his maiden Test century in 1969 against the West Indies in Sydney. Although he matured as a cricketer later in his career, his ability to adapt made him an essential part of the Australian team.
Redpath’s second wind saw him score seven Test centuries, including five in his last 15 matches. Notably, during the 1975–76 series, he delivered three centuries against a formidable West Indies attack. Despite being known for his conservative approach, Redpath hit his first two sixes in his penultimate Test, proving his adaptability even in the twilight of his career.
Unwavering Team Spirit
Redpath exemplified what it meant to be a team player. When the selectors called him up for the 1974 New Zealand tour, he willingly shifted to the opening spot to support the team’s needs. His resilience shone again during the 1974–75 Ashes, where, after being unfairly given out on a damp pitch, his protest was subtle but poignant: he sat silently in the dressing room and spat on his bat.
Yet, financial constraints led to his eventual retirement. Though he initially declined to tour in 1975 due to business commitments, he considered a proposal to cover his absence for $40 a week. Unfortunately, the Australian Cricket Board rejected the idea, citing concerns about setting a precedent.
Memorable Moments
Redpath’s career was filled with unforgettable highlights. During a tour game against Orange Free State in 1969–70, he blasted 32 runs off an over—earning a spot in Wisden—after being urged to accelerate the scoring. Another memorable performance came during the 1973–74 Auckland Test, where he carried his bat for a remarkable 159 not out on a challenging pitch. Similarly, his century against the West Indies in 1975–76 on a scorching day at the MCG showcased his technical brilliance and endurance.
The Man Beyond Cricket
Redpath wasn’t just a cricketer. He excelled in Australian Rules football, earning accolades in the VAFA, and was an enthusiastic golfer. His camaraderie extended beyond the pitch, forming deep friendships despite contrasting personalities.
The South Africans revered him for his technical precision, and his wry humor was equally respected by teammates and opponents. Once, after unintentionally nicking a ball while batting, his confession drew a humorous reprimand from Redpath for not walking.
A Fond Farewell
In his final days, Redpath’s daughter, Annabel, was asked to relay a heartfelt message: “Could you please tell your father it was a privilege to play with him and to be his friend.”
This sentiment encapsulates the legacy of Ian Redpath—an unassuming yet extraordinary sportsman who gave his all for the game and his teammates.
His contributions, both on and off the field, will remain etched in the annals of Australian cricket, ensuring that his memory lives on as one of the sport’s most cherished figures.