Former Australian cricketer Ian Redpath, renowned for his resilience and skill as an opener, has passed away at the age of 83. Redpath’s career, spanning from 1964 to 1976, saw him play 66 Tests and five ODIs, leaving an indelible mark on the game.
Redpath narrowly missed a century on his Test debut at the MCG against South Africa, dismissed for 97 by Joe Partridge. Reflecting on the moment in a 2023 interview, he described it as a perfectly timed shot that fell just short of his aspirations. It wasn’t until 1969 that he scored his maiden Test century, crafting a memorable 132 against a formidable West Indies attack, including legends Wes Hall and Garry Sobers.
Over his career, Redpath accumulated eight Test centuries, with his highest score of 171 coming against England in Perth in 1970. His final series against the West Indies in 1975-76 showcased his enduring talent, with three centuries in four innings. One of those innings, a gritty ton at the MCG, was lauded by Wisden for exemplifying his value to Australian cricket over the years.
Redpath retired at his peak to focus on his antique business in Geelong, only to return a year later for two seasons in World Series Cricket. Though injuries hampered his first season, his return reaffirmed his passion for the game.
Renowned cricket historian Gideon Haigh once described Redpath as a technically astute batter who played straight and defended with precision. He skillfully swayed and ducked bouncers in the pre-helmet era, earning respect for his courage and adaptability.
Beyond his batting, Redpath held a unique distinction as the last Australian cricketer to play as an amateur, opting to waive his match fee during the 1963-64 season to maintain his Australian Rules Football eligibility. He also served as vice-captain under Ian and Greg Chappell, mentoring Greg during his debut century partnership against England in 1970-71.
Redpath's remarkable feats include setting a record for the most runs scored in a single over by an Australian, amassing 32 runs with four sixes and two fours during a match in 1969-70. Interestingly, his first six in international cricket came in his penultimate Test.
Recognised for his contributions, Redpath was awarded an MBE in 1975, later coaching Victoria and earning induction into the Cricket Australia Hall of Fame in January 2023. In 2024, the Geelong Cricket Club honoured him by naming their scoreboard after him.
Cricket Australia Chair Mike Baird expressed deep sorrow at Redpath’s passing, "Ian was a much loved and revered figure and everyone in Australian cricket will be enormously saddened by his passing," Mike Baird said. "As a fine opening batter, Ian was a mainstay of the national team through one of the great eras of Australian cricket and beloved by many throughout the world for his courage, impeccable sportsmanship and wry humour."
"We were privileged to hear Ian speak of the wonderful experiences and relationships cricket had provided upon his induction into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame in 2023 and this deep love of the game was manifest in his enormous contribution to cricket at first-class and community level."
"The thoughts of everyone at Cricket Australia are with Ian's family and many friends at this sad time."