Citizendia

History of cricket
To 1696
1697 to 1725
1726 to 1815
Tests to 1883
Tests 1884 to 1889
Tests 1890 to 1900
Tests 1901 to 1914
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Test matches (matches of Test cricket) in the 19th century were somewhat different affairs than what they are today. The game of Cricket has a known history spanning from the 16th century to the present day with international matches played since 1844 although the official history Test matches in the period 1877 to 1883 were organised somewhat differently from international Cricket matches today The history of Test cricket between 1884 and 1889 was one of English dominance over the Australians. For more coverage of cricket go to the Cricket portal. England in Australia 1901/2 See also English cricket team in Australia in 1901–02 Test cricket is the longest form of the Sport of Cricket. It has long been considered the ultimate test of playing ability between cricketing nations Many of them were not designated as Test matches for many years afterwards, and it is possible that some Test players never knew they had played in a Test. Before 1888 there had been 26 Test matches, all between England and Australia. Year 1888 ( MDCCCLXXXVIII) was a Leap year starting on Sunday (click on link for calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a The England cricket team is the national cricket team which represents England and Wales. The Australian cricket team is the national cricket team of Australia. England had won 13 of them, Australia 9, with 4 draws. During the 19th century England played in all the Tests, which were mostly against Australia, though a few were against what tended to be a very weak South African XI. The 19th century of the Common Era began on January 1, 1801 and ended on December 31, 1900, according to the Gregorian calendar The England cricket team is the national cricket team which represents England and Wales. The Australian cricket team is the national cricket team of Australia. The South African cricket team, also known as The Proteas are a national Cricket team representing South Africa

By the end of the 19th century, 64 Test matches had been played. Whilst the great England v. Australia matches towards the end of the century were recognised as Tests at the time, the classification of many of the games listed below as Tests only happened much later. Some of the games, especially those involving South Africa, were between a very weak South African squad and a not particularly representative England team. By 1900 South Africa had played 8 games, and lost them all to England. Year 1900 ( MCM) was an exceptional Common year starting on Monday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar Meanwhile, England had faced Australia 56 times, winning 26, losing 20, and drawing 10. Additionally, one game was abandoned without a ball being bowled because of rain.

Contents

The greats: Grace v Murdoch 1890

This series marked the return of Billy Murdoch as Australia’s leader, and pitched him against The Champion, WG Grace. William (Billy Lloyd Murdoch ( 18 October 1854 – 18 February 1911) was an Australian Cricketer, who captained the Australian William Gilbert Grace ( 18 July 1848 – 23 October 1915) was an English Cricketer who by his extraordinary skills made The Australian side was good, but they were still without some of their best players. 1890 was a wet summer, and the rain affected all of the three planned Tests. The first Test was the most eagerly anticipated match of the English summer, with 30,279 spectators watching it over the 3 days, though Stoddart and Briggs did not play. Andrew Ernest Stoddart ( 11 March, 1863 – 4 April, 1915) was an English Cricketer and Rugby union player Rain on the 2 days before the match left the pitch slow, but it got steadily better and better, and was at its best on the last day, when England scored 137 to win by 7 wickets, with Grace, who was out for a duck in the first innings, scoring 75 not out. The second Test at the Oval was particularly tense, partly, no doubt, because Andrew Stoddart (an amateur) chose to play for Middlesex, whilst Peel and Ulyett (professionals) were claimed by Yorkshire. Andrew Ernest Stoddart ( 11 March, 1863 – 4 April, 1915) was an English Cricketer and Rugby union player [1] Rain before the first day’s play contributed to 22 wickets falling for 197 runs on day 1. On day 2, England only needed 95 to win, they lost eight wickets to Charles Turner and Ferris before getting them, with the winning run being scampered as Australia missed a clear run out chance. Charles Thomas Turner ( Bathurst, November 16, 1862 &ndash January 1, 1944 in Manly New South Wales, Australia was a For the term run out, used in equestrian sport see Refusal Run out is a method of dismissal in the Sport A planned third Test match at Old Trafford, Manchester was washed out, thereby becoming the first Test to be abandoned entirely because of the weather.

Australia in England 1890. Match length: 3 days. Balls per over: 5. Series result: England win 2-0.

No. Date Home captain Away captain Venue Result
33 21,22,23 Jul 1890 WG Grace Billy Murdoch Lord's ENG by 7 wkts
34 11,12 Aug 1890 WG Grace Billy Murdoch The Oval ENG by 2 wkts
- (25,26,27 Aug 1890) WG Grace Billy Murdoch Old Trafford ABANDONED

Australian summer 1891-92

Lord Sheffield led the England team, which was captained by WG Grace, on the tour to play an Australian side captained by the great Jack Blackham. Year 1890 ( MDCCCXC) was a Common year starting on Wednesday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common William Gilbert Grace ( 18 July 1848 – 23 October 1915) was an English Cricketer who by his extraordinary skills made William (Billy Lloyd Murdoch ( 18 October 1854 – 18 February 1911) was an Australian Cricketer, who captained the Australian Lord's Cricket Ground (generally known as Lord's) is a cricket Year 1890 ( MDCCCXC) was a Common year starting on Wednesday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common William Gilbert Grace ( 18 July 1848 – 23 October 1915) was an English Cricketer who by his extraordinary skills made William (Billy Lloyd Murdoch ( 18 October 1854 – 18 February 1911) was an Australian Cricketer, who captained the Australian The Oval PavilionJPG|250px|right|thumb|The Members Pavilion]] The Oval is an international Cricket ground in Kennington, London Year 1890 ( MDCCCXC) was a Common year starting on Wednesday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common William Gilbert Grace ( 18 July 1848 – 23 October 1915) was an English Cricketer who by his extraordinary skills made William (Billy Lloyd Murdoch ( 18 October 1854 – 18 February 1911) was an Australian Cricketer, who captained the Australian The Old Trafford Cricket Ground, usually known as simply Old Trafford, is a Cricket ground situated on Talbot Road in Old Trafford, an area of William Gilbert Grace ( 18 July 1848 – 23 October 1915) was an English Cricketer who by his extraordinary skills made John McCarthy Blackham ( 11 May 1854 &mdash 28 December 1932) was a Cricketer who played for Victoria and Australia The England side was reckoned to be a strong one, even though only six of the tourists had played Test cricket before. Australia won the first Test by 54 runs. In the second, after conceding a first innings deficit of 162 runs, scored 391 to leave England needing 230 to win. Despite poor light, Grace stuck to the usual batting order, and England were soon 11 for 3. Grace got heavily criticised as England lost by 72 runs. In the third Test, on a good batting pitch, England scored 490 for 9. Torrential rain then ruined the pitch for further play and Australia collapsed twice to record a massive defeat by an innings and 230 runs.

England in Australia 1891-92. Match length: Timeless. Balls per over: 6. Series result: Australia won 2-1.

No. Date Home captain Away captain Venue Result
35 1,2,4,5,6 Jan 1892 Jack Blackham WG Grace Melbourne Cricket Ground AUS by 54 runs
36 29,30 Jan, 1,2,3 Feb 1892 Jack Blackham WG Grace Sydney Cricket Ground AUS by 72 runs
38 24,25,26,28 Mar 1892 Jack Blackham WG Grace Adelaide Oval ENG by Inns&230 runs

Second England tour to South Africa 1891-92

See also: 1891-92 South African cricket season

This match was not considered by anyone at the time to be a Test, but was subsequently elevated to Test match status. Year 1892 ( MDCCCXCII) was a Leap year starting on Friday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian Calendar (or a Leap year John McCarthy Blackham ( 11 May 1854 &mdash 28 December 1932) was a Cricketer who played for Victoria and Australia William Gilbert Grace ( 18 July 1848 – 23 October 1915) was an English Cricketer who by his extraordinary skills made Year 1892 ( MDCCCXCII) was a Leap year starting on Friday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian Calendar (or a Leap year John McCarthy Blackham ( 11 May 1854 &mdash 28 December 1932) was a Cricketer who played for Victoria and Australia William Gilbert Grace ( 18 July 1848 – 23 October 1915) was an English Cricketer who by his extraordinary skills made The Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG is a sports Stadium in Sydney. Year 1892 ( MDCCCXCII) was a Leap year starting on Friday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian Calendar (or a Leap year John McCarthy Blackham ( 11 May 1854 &mdash 28 December 1932) was a Cricketer who played for Victoria and Australia William Gilbert Grace ( 18 July 1848 – 23 October 1915) was an English Cricketer who by his extraordinary skills made The Adelaide Oval is a sports ground in Adelaide, South Australia. This article describes the history of South African cricket from its known beginnings until the end of the First World War in 1918 The main England winter tour was still ongoing in Australia. As a result, Walter Read's two Test match victories as captain leave him as one of the two with a 100% record while captaining England in more than one Test. The main points of note are that this game Billy Murdoch and JJ Ferris, both of whom had previously played for Australia and had now settled in England, played for the English tourists. William (Billy Lloyd Murdoch ( 18 October 1854 – 18 February 1911) was an Australian Cricketer, who captained the Australian Similarly, Frank Hearne, who had previously played Test cricket for England against South Africa before settling in South Africa, played for South Africa, while his two brothers, Alec Hearne and George Gibbons Hearne, and their cousin, John Thomas Hearne, all played for England. Frank Hearne (23 November 1858 in Ealing, England – 14 July 1949 in Cape Town, South Africa) was a Cricketer One of the few Alec Hearne ( 22 July 1863 in Ealing, Middlesex, England – 16 May 1952 in Beckenham, Kent George Gibbons Hearne (7 July 1856 in Ealing, Middlesex, England – 13 February 1932 in Denmark Hill, London, England was a John Thomas Hearne (born May 3, 1867 in Buckinghamshire, died April 17, 1944 in Buckinghamshire (known either as Jack Hearne

England in South Africa 1891-92. Match length: 3 days. Balls per over: 5. One-off Test. Result: England won

No. Date Home captain Away captain Venue Result
37 19,21,22 Mar 1892 William Milton Walter Read Cape Town ENG by Inns&189 runs

Blackham's tour of England 1893

Grace was injured for the first Test, so England were captained by Andrew Stoddart. Year 1892 ( MDCCCXCII) was a Leap year starting on Friday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian Calendar (or a Leap year Walter William Read (born 23 November 1855 in Reigate, Surrey, died 6 January 1907 in Addiscombe Park, Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town is a South African Cricket ground Andrew Ernest Stoddart ( 11 March, 1863 – 4 April, 1915) was an English Cricketer and Rugby union player The match was ruined by rain. Arthur Shrewsbury became the first cricketer to score 1,000 Test runs during his 106 in England's first innings total of 334. Arthur Shrewsbury ( 11 April, 1856 &ndash 19 May, 1903) was an English Cricketer who was widely rated as competing with Cricket is a bat-and-ball team Sport that originated in England and is now played in more than 100 countries Australia replied with 269 and England moved to 234 for 8 declared before rain tumbled down and no further play was possible. This was the first declaration in Test cricket.

England's strong side won the second Test, aided by a 151 first wicket partnership between Stoddart and the returning Grace. After scoring 91 runs in their first innings, the Aussies were asked to follow on. AC Bannerman became the first Australian to score 1,000 Test runs. Alexander ("Alick" or "Alec" Chalmers Bannerman (21 March 1854 in Sydney, New South Wales - 19 September 1924 in Sydney The Aussies put up much brave resistance and scored 349, but this still equated to an innings defeat, and England had retained the Ashes. The Ashes is a Test cricket series played between England and Australia. England went on to play out the third Test for a draw to earn a series victory.

Australia in England 1893. Match length: 3 days. Balls per over: 5. Series result: England won 1-0.

No. Date Home captain Away captain Venue Result
39 17,18,19 Jul 1893 Andrew Stoddart Jack Blackham Lord's DRAW
40 14,15,16 Aug 1893 WG Grace Jack Blackham The Oval ENG by Inns&43 runs
41 24,25,26 Aug 1893 WG Grace Jack Blackham Old Trafford DRAW

Stoddart's tour of Australia 1894-95

In 1894/5 Andrew Stoddart led a team to Australia that played five Tests in a see-saw series that saw England win the Ashes by 3 games to 2. Year 1893 ( MDCCCXCIII) was a Common year starting on Sunday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common Andrew Ernest Stoddart ( 11 March, 1863 – 4 April, 1915) was an English Cricketer and Rugby union player John McCarthy Blackham ( 11 May 1854 &mdash 28 December 1932) was a Cricketer who played for Victoria and Australia Lord's Cricket Ground (generally known as Lord's) is a cricket Year 1893 ( MDCCCXCIII) was a Common year starting on Sunday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common William Gilbert Grace ( 18 July 1848 – 23 October 1915) was an English Cricketer who by his extraordinary skills made John McCarthy Blackham ( 11 May 1854 &mdash 28 December 1932) was a Cricketer who played for Victoria and Australia The Oval PavilionJPG|250px|right|thumb|The Members Pavilion]] The Oval is an international Cricket ground in Kennington, London Year 1893 ( MDCCCXCIII) was a Common year starting on Sunday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common William Gilbert Grace ( 18 July 1848 – 23 October 1915) was an English Cricketer who by his extraordinary skills made John McCarthy Blackham ( 11 May 1854 &mdash 28 December 1932) was a Cricketer who played for Victoria and Australia The Old Trafford Cricket Ground, usually known as simply Old Trafford, is a Cricket ground situated on Talbot Road in Old Trafford, an area of Andrew Ernest Stoddart ( 11 March, 1863 – 4 April, 1915) was an English Cricketer and Rugby union player The Ashes is a Test cricket series played between England and Australia. The first Test started as a high-scoring affair, with Australia making a then-record 586 runs thanks to 201 from Syd Gregory and 161 from George Giffen. Sydney Edward Gregory ( 14 April 1870 &mdash 1 August 1929) sometimes known as Edward Sydney Gregory, was a Cricketer George Giffen (27 March 1859 &ndash 29 November 1927 was a Cricketer who played for South Australia and Australia. England replied with 325 and were asked to follow-on 261 behind. They made 437 to set Australia a target of only 177. Australia reached 113-2 at close of play, needing only another 64. Rain fell overnight, and Australia allowed play to be delayed for 20 minutes as a couple of England players, including slow left-arm spinner Bobby Peel had not reached the ground on time because they were hungover. Robert ("Bobby" Peel ( February 12, 1857 in Leeds – August 12, 1943 in Leeds was a Yorkshire and England Australia fell 10 short, with Peel taking 6 wickets and Briggs 3 on a pitch that had been made helpful by the rain. This was the first time a side following-on had won a Test match.

The second Test also saw a remarkable turnaround. After being put into bat in the first instance of a Test captain electing to field after winning the toss, England made only 75. Australia responded with 123. England's second innings was completely different. Led by the captain's innings of 173, England made 475. Australia managed only 333 to leave England comfortable winners by 94 runs.

Later, in the third Test Australia (238 and 411) finally rammed home the advantage after dismissing England cheaply (124 and 143) to win by 382 runs. The match was played in searing heat with temperatures hitting 155F in the open. In the fourth Test England chose to field after winning the toss, collapsed twice in one day, scoring only 65 and 72 to lose by an innings. The weather had now helped even the series up at two apiece. England (385 and 298 for 4) recovered to win the deciding Test from Australia (414 and 267) by 6 wickets. With England in early trouble in the second innings, JT Brown scored 140, reaching his 50 in 28 minutes and 100 in 95.

George Giffen could consider himself unfortunate to finish on the losing side, having contributed 475 runs at an average of 52. 77 and 34 wickets at 24. 11. "Terror" Turner had the best average of a specialist bowler on either side, taking 18 wickets at 19. Charles Thomas Turner ( Bathurst, November 16, 1862 &ndash January 1, 1944 in Manly New South Wales, Australia was a 38, but he only played in three Tests, missing the third match with a chill and surprisingly being dropped for the last. For England, Tom Richardson had 32 wickets at 26. Tom Richardson (born August 11, 1870, Byfleet, Surrey; died July 2, 1912, Chambéry, France) was 53 and Peel 27 at 26. 70.

England in Australia 1894-95. Match length: Timeless. Balls per over: 6. Series result: England won 3-2.

No. Date Home captain Away captain Venue Result
42 14,15,17,18,19,20 Dec 1894 Jack Blackham Andrew Stoddart Sydney Cricket Ground ENG by 10 runs
43 29,31 Dec, 1,2,3 1894/5 George Giffen Andrew Stoddart Melbourne Cricket Ground ENG by 94 runs
44 11,12,14,15 Jan 1895 George Giffen Andrew Stoddart Adelaide Oval AUS by 382 runs
45 1,2,4 Feb 1895 George Giffen Andrew Stoddart Sydney Cricket Ground AUS by Inns&147 runs
46 1,2,4,5,6 Mar 1895 George Giffen Andrew Stoddart Melbourne Cricket Ground ENG by 6 wkts

England's third tour of South Africa 1895-96

Lord Hawke
Lord Hawke

England's third tour of South Africa was a very one-sided series that was not elevated to Test status till later. Year 1894 ( MDCCCXCIV) was a Common year starting on Monday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common John McCarthy Blackham ( 11 May 1854 &mdash 28 December 1932) was a Cricketer who played for Victoria and Australia Andrew Ernest Stoddart ( 11 March, 1863 – 4 April, 1915) was an English Cricketer and Rugby union player The Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG is a sports Stadium in Sydney. Year 1894 ( MDCCCXCIV) was a Common year starting on Monday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common Year 1895 ( MDCCCXCV) was a Common year starting on Tuesday (link will display full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common year George Giffen (27 March 1859 &ndash 29 November 1927 was a Cricketer who played for South Australia and Australia. Andrew Ernest Stoddart ( 11 March, 1863 – 4 April, 1915) was an English Cricketer and Rugby union player Year 1895 ( MDCCCXCV) was a Common year starting on Tuesday (link will display full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common year George Giffen (27 March 1859 &ndash 29 November 1927 was a Cricketer who played for South Australia and Australia. Andrew Ernest Stoddart ( 11 March, 1863 – 4 April, 1915) was an English Cricketer and Rugby union player The Adelaide Oval is a sports ground in Adelaide, South Australia. Year 1895 ( MDCCCXCV) was a Common year starting on Tuesday (link will display full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common year George Giffen (27 March 1859 &ndash 29 November 1927 was a Cricketer who played for South Australia and Australia. Andrew Ernest Stoddart ( 11 March, 1863 – 4 April, 1915) was an English Cricketer and Rugby union player The Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG is a sports Stadium in Sydney. Year 1895 ( MDCCCXCV) was a Common year starting on Tuesday (link will display full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common year George Giffen (27 March 1859 &ndash 29 November 1927 was a Cricketer who played for South Australia and Australia. Andrew Ernest Stoddart ( 11 March, 1863 – 4 April, 1915) was an English Cricketer and Rugby union player Lord Hawke redirects here For other holders of the title see Baron Hawke Martin Bladen Hawke 7th Baron Hawke ( Gainsborough 16 England fielded 10 new caps throughout the series (8 in the first Test). The captains, a baronet and a lord, were chosen for their roles more because of their status than their cricketing ability.

The highlight of the first Test was South Africa's dismissal for a record low of 30 in their second innings, with George Lohmann taking 8 wickets for 7 runs, including a hat-trick. George Lohmann (June 2 1865 in London – December 1 1901 in Worcester Western Cape, South Africa) is regarded as one the greatest bowlers He had match figures of 15 for 45.

Lohmann followed this with 9 wickets for 28 runs in the first innings of the second Test, the first time a bowler had taken 9 wickets in a single Test innings. In the third Test, Lohmann took his haul of wickets to 35 at an average of 5. 8.

England in South Africa 1895-96. Match length: 3 days. Balls per over: 5. Series result: England won 3-0.

No. Date Home captain Away captain Venue Result
47 13,14 Feb 1896 Baberton Halliwell Sir Tim O'Brien Port Elizabeth ENG by 288 runs
48 2,3,4 Mar 1896 Baberton Halliwell Lord Hawke Johannesburg ENG by Inns&197 runs
49 21,23 Mar 1896 Alfred Richards Lord Hawke Cape Town ENG by Inns&33 runs

Trott tours England 1896

The first day of the first Test was well attended: 25,414 paying customers, and possibly 30,000 spectators in total. Year 1896 ( MDCCCXCVI) was a Leap year starting on Wednesday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian Calendar (or a Leap year Ernest Austin Halliwell, sometimes known as Baberton Halliwell ( 7 September 1864 in Ealing, Middlesex, England – Sir Timothy (Tim Carew O'Brien 3rd Baronet was born at Dublin on 5 November, 1861 and died at Ramsey Isle of Man on 9 December, St George’s Park Cricket Ground or Crusaders Ground or simply Crusaders in Port Elizabeth, South Africa is the home of Port Elizabeth Cricket Year 1896 ( MDCCCXCVI) was a Leap year starting on Wednesday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian Calendar (or a Leap year Ernest Austin Halliwell, sometimes known as Baberton Halliwell ( 7 September 1864 in Ealing, Middlesex, England – Lord Hawke redirects here For other holders of the title see Baron Hawke Martin Bladen Hawke 7th Baron Hawke ( Gainsborough 16 Old Wanderers was a cricket ground in Johannesburg, South Africa. Year 1896 ( MDCCCXCVI) was a Leap year starting on Wednesday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian Calendar (or a Leap year Alfred Renfrew Richards ( 14 December, 1867 &ndash 9 January, 1904) was an South African Cricketer who played in one Lord Hawke redirects here For other holders of the title see Baron Hawke Martin Bladen Hawke 7th Baron Hawke ( Gainsborough 16 Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town is a South African Cricket ground It was a see-saw game with Australia dismissed for 53, before England got 292. Australia's 347 in their second innings left England with 108 to win, which they did with 6 wickets to spare. In the first Test Grace completed his 1,000 runs in Test cricket.

In the second Test Ranjitsinhji, the first Indian to play Test cricket, and who the MCC had not selected for the first Test, became the second batsman after Grace to score a hundred on debut for England. Ranjitsinhji Vibhaji Jadeja, Maharaja Jam Sahib of Nawanagar ( 10 September 1872 &ndash 2 April 1933 His 154 not out and Richardson's 13 for 244 were the highlights of the game, but it was Australian that won by 3 wickets chasing 125. During the match George Giffen became the first to complete the Test career double of 1,000 runs and 100 wickets. George Giffen (27 March 1859 &ndash 29 November 1927 was a Cricketer who played for South Australia and Australia.

Five England players (that is, professionals) threatened strike action before the start of the third Test at the Oval, Surrey’s home ground, because of a dispute over match fees. The Oval PavilionJPG|250px|right|thumb|The Members Pavilion]] The Oval is an international Cricket ground in Kennington, London Surrey County Cricket Club is one of the 18 major county clubs which make up the English domestic Cricket structure representing the historic county of They wished to be paid £20 rather than the normal going rate of £10, and were upset as they saw amateurs such as WG Grace and Walter Read seemingly earning lots of money from cricket despite being amateurs. William Gilbert Grace ( 18 July 1848 – 23 October 1915) was an English Cricketer who by his extraordinary skills made Walter William Read (born 23 November 1855 in Reigate, Surrey, died 6 January 1907 in Addiscombe Park, They were Abel, Hayward, Lohmann and Richardson, all Surrey-players, and William Gunn of Nottinghamshire. William (Billy Gunn ( 4 December 1858 in St Anne's Nottingham, England – 29 January 1921 in Standard Hill Nottingham Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club is one of the 18 major county clubs which make up the English domestic Cricket structure representing the historic county of The Surrey committee did not budge, and they put out the following statement on 10 August, the opening day of the Test:

The committee of the Surrey County Cricket Club have observed paragraphs in the Press respecting amounts alleged to be paid, or promised to, Dr WG Grace for playing in the match England v Australia. Events 612 BC - Killing of Sinsharishkun, King of Assyrian Empire The Committee desire to give the statements contained in the paragraphs the most unqualified contradiction. During many years, on the occasions of Dr WG Grace playing at the Oval, at the request of the Surrey County Committee, in the matches Gentlemen v Players and England v Australia, Dr Grace has received the sum of £10 a match to cover his expenses in coming to and remaining in London during the three days. Beyond this amount Dr Grace has not received, directly or indirectly, one farthing for playing in a match at the Oval.

Abel, Hayward and Richardson relented, but Gunn and Lohmann refused to play. Rain prevented play until 4. 55pm. on the first day, caused 24 wickets to fall on the second, and led to Australia being dismissed for their lowest total, 44 all out chasing of 111. England had retained the Ashes.

Australia in England 1896. Match length: 3 days. Balls per over: 5. Series result: England won 2-1.

No. Date Home captain Away captain Venue Result
50 22,23,24 Jun 1896 WG Grace Harry Trott Lord's ENG by 6 wkts
51 16,17,18 Jul 1896 WG Grace Harry Trott Old Trafford AUS by 3 wkts
52 10,11,12 Aug 1896 WG Grace Harry Trott The Oval ENG by 66 runs

Stoddart's tour of Australia 1897-98

Stoddart's tour of Australia in 1897-98 ended in an emphatic victory for Australia by 4 Tests to 1. Year 1896 ( MDCCCXCVI) was a Leap year starting on Wednesday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian Calendar (or a Leap year William Gilbert Grace ( 18 July 1848 – 23 October 1915) was an English Cricketer who by his extraordinary skills made George Henry Stevens "Harry" Trott (5 August 1866 &ndash 10 November 1917 was an Australian Test cricketer who played 24 Test matches as an Lord's Cricket Ground (generally known as Lord's) is a cricket Year 1896 ( MDCCCXCVI) was a Leap year starting on Wednesday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian Calendar (or a Leap year William Gilbert Grace ( 18 July 1848 – 23 October 1915) was an English Cricketer who by his extraordinary skills made George Henry Stevens "Harry" Trott (5 August 1866 &ndash 10 November 1917 was an Australian Test cricketer who played 24 Test matches as an The Old Trafford Cricket Ground, usually known as simply Old Trafford, is a Cricket ground situated on Talbot Road in Old Trafford, an area of Year 1896 ( MDCCCXCVI) was a Leap year starting on Wednesday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian Calendar (or a Leap year William Gilbert Grace ( 18 July 1848 – 23 October 1915) was an English Cricketer who by his extraordinary skills made George Henry Stevens "Harry" Trott (5 August 1866 &ndash 10 November 1917 was an Australian Test cricketer who played 24 Test matches as an The Oval PavilionJPG|250px|right|thumb|The Members Pavilion]] The Oval is an international Cricket ground in Kennington, London The tour matches before the Tests were well attended, with 69,195 attending the game against New South Wales, of whom 32,253 attended on the Saturday, but attendances tailed off later.

The first Test was delayed, at the instigation of the SCG to allow time for Ranjitsinhji to recover from tonsillitis and because Andrew Stoddart's mother had died. Ranjitsinhji Vibhaji Jadeja, Maharaja Jam Sahib of Nawanagar ( 10 September 1872 &ndash 2 April 1933 Tonsillitis is an Infection of the Tonsils and will often but not necessarily cause a Sore throat and Fever. Andrew Ernest Stoddart ( 11 March, 1863 – 4 April, 1915) was an English Cricketer and Rugby union player In the event, Stoddart did not play, but Ranjitsinhji did, although he did drop down to seventh in the batting order. England were captained by Archie MacLaren for the first time. Archibald (Archie Campbell MacLaren ( 1 December 1871 in Whalley Range, Manchester, Lancashire – 17 November The Test was dominated by an innings of 175 by Ranjitsinhji. Ranjitsinhji Vibhaji Jadeja, Maharaja Jam Sahib of Nawanagar ( 10 September 1872 &ndash 2 April 1933 There was a moment of controversy when Australian batsman Charlie McLeod was run out by Bill Storer when he left his crease after being bowled by a no-ball, when his deafness prevented him from hearing the umpire's call. Charles Edward McLeod ( October 24, 1869, Port Melbourne Victoria – November 26, 1918, Toorak Victoria) was an William Storer (born January 25, 1867, Butterley, Derbyshire, died February 28, 1912 in Derby) was an England won comfortably by 9 wickets.

In the second Test, Stoddart was fit to play, but chose not to do so when he heard Ranji was fit again. He watched the match from the pavilion, watched by the girls below. It was suggested that he was looking for a new wife, "Whose wife?" being one reply. McLeod scored 112, getting revenge on England, who were well beaten by over an innings. There was controversy here, when Australian bowler Ernie Jones became the first Test bowler to be called for throwing. Ernest Jones (30 September 1869 Auburn South Australia 23 November 1943 Magill South Australia) was an Australian sportsman playing Test cricket This was after Ranji had criticised Jones' bowling in the press. The third Test was won with the help of Joe Darling's 178. Joseph "Joe" Darling CBE (21 November 1870 &ndash 2 January 1946 was an Australian Cricketer who played 34 Test matches as a Darling reached his century with the first six scored in Test cricket without the aid of other throws. To get this achievement he had to hit the ball out of the ground.

In the fourth Test, Clem Hill's 188 helped Australia to a comfortable win. Clement "Clem" Hill (18 March 1877 in Hindmarsh, Adelaide, South Australia &ndash 5 September 1945 in Parkville, Melbourne And they also won the fifth Test comfortable, thanks to a career-best performance from Tom Richardson, won took 8 for 94 in the first innings of his last Test match. Tom Richardson (born August 11, 1870, Byfleet, Surrey; died July 2, 1912, Chambéry, France) was Joe Darling became the first man to score three centuries in a Test series with 160 out of Australia's 276 runs they needed to win.

Throughout the tour Ranji and Stoddart had made disparaging comments about Australian crowds in the Australian press, which ensured the matches were played amongst great rancour. Stoddart wrote, "I shall, in all probability, never visit this country again with a cricket team, and what I have said has been purely for the good of the game, for the sake of the players in this country, and of English teams coming out here in the future. " Stoddart never did tour Australia again, although at the tour's end Ranji did send an apology, and his popularity did not suffer so much as a result.

England in Australia 1897-98. Match length: Timeless. Balls per over: 6. Series result: Australia won 4-1.

No. Date Home captain Away captain Venue Result
53 13,14,15,16,17 Dec 1897 Harry Trott Archie MacLaren Sydney Cricket Ground ENG by 9 wkts
54 1,3,4,5 Jan 1898 Harry Trott Archie MacLaren Melbourne Cricket Ground AUS by Inns&55 runs
55 14,15,17,18,19 Jan 1898 Harry Trott Andrew Stoddart Adelaide Oval AUS by Inns&13 runs
56 29,31 Jan, 1,2 Feb 1898 Harry Trott Andrew Stoddart Melbourne Cricket Ground AUS by 8 wkts
57 26,28 Feb, 1,2 Mar 1898 Harry Trott Archie MacLaren Sydney Cricket Ground AUS by 6 wkts

Hawke in South Africa 1898-99

Lord Hawke led a second tour to South Africa. Year 1897 ( MDCCCXCVII) was a Common year starting on Friday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian Calendar (or a Common George Henry Stevens "Harry" Trott (5 August 1866 &ndash 10 November 1917 was an Australian Test cricketer who played 24 Test matches as an Archibald (Archie Campbell MacLaren ( 1 December 1871 in Whalley Range, Manchester, Lancashire – 17 November The Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG is a sports Stadium in Sydney. Year 1898 ( MDCCCXCVIII) was a Common year starting on Saturday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common George Henry Stevens "Harry" Trott (5 August 1866 &ndash 10 November 1917 was an Australian Test cricketer who played 24 Test matches as an Archibald (Archie Campbell MacLaren ( 1 December 1871 in Whalley Range, Manchester, Lancashire – 17 November Year 1898 ( MDCCCXCVIII) was a Common year starting on Saturday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common George Henry Stevens "Harry" Trott (5 August 1866 &ndash 10 November 1917 was an Australian Test cricketer who played 24 Test matches as an Andrew Ernest Stoddart ( 11 March, 1863 – 4 April, 1915) was an English Cricketer and Rugby union player The Adelaide Oval is a sports ground in Adelaide, South Australia. Year 1898 ( MDCCCXCVIII) was a Common year starting on Saturday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common George Henry Stevens "Harry" Trott (5 August 1866 &ndash 10 November 1917 was an Australian Test cricketer who played 24 Test matches as an Andrew Ernest Stoddart ( 11 March, 1863 – 4 April, 1915) was an English Cricketer and Rugby union player Year 1898 ( MDCCCXCVIII) was a Common year starting on Saturday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common George Henry Stevens "Harry" Trott (5 August 1866 &ndash 10 November 1917 was an Australian Test cricketer who played 24 Test matches as an Archibald (Archie Campbell MacLaren ( 1 December 1871 in Whalley Range, Manchester, Lancashire – 17 November The Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG is a sports Stadium in Sydney. Again, the England side was at far from full strength, with 9 Test match debuts for England in the series, most notably that of future English cricket captain Plum Warner, who carried his bat through England's second innings in the first Test for 132. This is a list of all English national cricket captains, comprising all of the men boys and women who have captained an English national cricket team at official Sir Pelham Francis Warner ( 2 October 1873 in Port of Spain, Trinidad - 30 January 1963 at West Lavington West Sussex The first Test was South Africa's best to date, and they were set 132 to win. But Albert Trott, who also played three Tests for Australia, took 5 for 49 to dismiss them for 99. Albert Edwin Trott (born 6 February 1873 in Abbotsford, Melbourne, died 30 July 1914 in Willesden Green, Middlesex) was an Australian

South Africa had a chance to record their first Test victory in the second Test, after dismissing England for 99, then scoring 177 themselves. 330 from England set them a challenging 246. But the South Africans collapsed again and were bowled out by Schofield Haigh (6 for 11) and Trott (4 for 19) for a feeble 35 off only 114 balls. Schofield Haigh (born March 19, 1871, Berry Brow, Huddersfield, Yorkshire, England, died February 27, 1921

Murray Bisset, who was a little under 23 years old, was the youngest Test captain at time and remained so for more than 50 years. He later became the chief justice of Rhodesia and earned a knighthood.

England in South Africa 1898-99. Match length: 3 days. Balls per over: 5. Series result: England won 2-0.

No. Date Home captain Away captain Venue Result
58 14,15,16 Feb 1899 Murray Bisset Lord Hawke Johannesburg ENG by 32 runs
59 1,3,4 Apr 1899 Murray Bisset Lord Hawke Cape Town ENG by 210 runs

English summer of 1899

Joe Darling
Joe Darling

It was known that the Australian side that would tour in 1899 would be a strong one, probably the strongest since 1882. Year 1899 ( MDCCCXCIX) was a Common year starting on Sunday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common Sir Murray Bisset ( 14 April 1876 - 24 October 1931) was a Test cricketer who captained South Africa before moving Lord Hawke redirects here For other holders of the title see Baron Hawke Martin Bladen Hawke 7th Baron Hawke ( Gainsborough 16 Old Wanderers was a cricket ground in Johannesburg, South Africa. Year 1899 ( MDCCCXCIX) was a Common year starting on Sunday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common Sir Murray Bisset ( 14 April 1876 - 24 October 1931) was a Test cricketer who captained South Africa before moving Lord Hawke redirects here For other holders of the title see Baron Hawke Martin Bladen Hawke 7th Baron Hawke ( Gainsborough 16 Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town is a South African Cricket ground Joseph "Joe" Darling CBE (21 November 1870 &ndash 2 January 1946 was an Australian Cricketer who played 34 Test matches as a Year 1882 ( MDCCCLXXXII) was a Common year starting on Sunday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common And for the first time in England, 5 Tests were going to be played. MCC and the counties appointed a selection committee for the first time. It comprised 3 active players: Lord Hawke, WG Grace and HW Bainbridge the captain of Warwickshire. Lord Hawke redirects here For other holders of the title see Baron Hawke Martin Bladen Hawke 7th Baron Hawke ( Gainsborough 16 William Gilbert Grace ( 18 July 1848 – 23 October 1915) was an English Cricketer who by his extraordinary skills made Warwickshire County Cricket Club is one of the 18 major county clubs which make up the English domestic Cricket structure representing the historic county Prior to this, England teams for home Tests had been chosen by the club on whose ground the match was to be played.

The first Test was also the first Test ever played at Trent Bridge, Nottinghamshire's home ground. Trent Bridge is a Test, One-day international and County Cricket ground located in West Bridgford, Nottinghamshire, Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club is one of the 18 major county clubs which make up the English domestic Cricket structure representing the historic county of Australia had the better of a drawn game: having set England 290 to win, England were 155 for 7 off 99 overs at the close.

Grace was 50 years and 320 days old on the last day of the first Test. It says a lot about The Champion that he was still worth his place as a batsman. But he could no longer bend down, so his fielding was poor, and the Nottinghamshire crowd jeered and heckled him for it every time a ball went past him at point. Grace himself put it to the selection committee that he should be dropped for the second Test, and after some debate this is what happened. Only one man has played Test cricket at a greater age. He is Wilfred Rhodes, who coincidentally made his debut in the first Test. Wilfred Rhodes (born October 29, 1877, North Moor Kirkheaton, near Huddersfield, Yorkshire; died July 8, 1973

Archie MacLaren was selected as captain for the remaining Tests, with the Honourable Stanley Jackson being somehow overlooked for his role (at the time the "Honourable" should have swung it his way). Archibald (Archie Campbell MacLaren ( 1 December 1871 in Whalley Range, Manchester, Lancashire – 17 November Sir Francis Stanley Jackson (born 21 November 1870 in Leeds, died 9 March 1947 in London) known as the Honourable Jackson, however, went on to captain England later. The second Test was won well by Australia, with notable performances from Ernie Jones (7 for 88 in England's first innings) and Clem Hill and Victor Trumper (both making 135 in Australia's first innings) helping the Aussies to a 10 wicket victory. Ernest Jones (30 September 1869 Auburn South Australia 23 November 1943 Magill South Australia) was an Australian sportsman playing Test cricket Clement "Clem" Hill (18 March 1877 in Hindmarsh, Adelaide, South Australia &ndash 5 September 1945 in Parkville, Melbourne Victor Thomas Trumper (born 2 November 1877 in Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, died 28 June 1915, Darlinghurst

The third Test, which was the first time a Test match was played in Leeds, was drawn after rain wiped out the final day with England needing 158 runs with all second innings wickets remaining to win. Leeds ( is located on the River Aire in West Yorkshire, England Johnny Briggs suffered a violent epileptic fit on the first night. Johnny Briggs (born October 3 1862, Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, England; died January 11, 1902, Heald Epilepsy is a common chronic Neurological disorder that is characterized by recurrent unprovoked seizures. He was detained in Cheadle Asylum and played no further cricket until the next season, though his illness killed him in 1902. Year 1902 ( MCMII) was a Common year starting on Wednesday (link will display calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common year starting

The fourth and fifth Tests were both draws. Between those Tests, Albert Trott, playing for the Marylebone Cricket Club against the Australians, notably hit a six off the bowling of Monty Noble that went over the pavilion at Lord's. Albert Edwin Trott (born 6 February 1873 in Abbotsford, Melbourne, died 30 July 1914 in Willesden Green, Middlesex) was an Australian Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC is a private members' club founded in 1787 Montague (Monty Alfred Noble ( 28 January 1873 &mdash 22 June 1940) was a Cricketer who played for New South Wales Lord's Cricket Ground (generally known as Lord's) is a cricket This remains the only time someone has achieved this since the current pavilion was built. The fourth Test was also notable for WM (Bill) Bradley taking a wicket (that of Frank Laver) with his first ball in Test cricket. Frank Jonas Laver (born December 7, 1869, Castlemaine Victoria, died September 24, 1919, East Melbourne Victoria was

Australia in England 1899. Match length: 3 days. Balls per over: 5. Series result: Australia won 1-0.

No. Date Home captain Away captain Venue Result
60 1,2,3 Jun 1899 WG Grace Joe Darling Trent Bridge DRAW
61 15,16,17 Jun 1899 Archie MacLaren Joe Darling Lord's AUS by 10 wkts
62 29,30 Jun, 1 Jul 1899 Archie MacLaren Joe Darling Trent Bridge DRAW
63 17,18,19 Jul 1899 Archie MacLaren Joe Darling Headingley DRAW
64 14,15,16 Aug 1899 Archie MacLaren Joe Darling The Oval DRAW

See also

Notes

  1. ^ Ralph Barker and Irving Rosenwater: England v Australia: A Compendium of Test Cricket between the countries 1877-1968, 1969, ISBN 0-7134-0317-9, p48. Year 1899 ( MDCCCXCIX) was a Common year starting on Sunday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common William Gilbert Grace ( 18 July 1848 – 23 October 1915) was an English Cricketer who by his extraordinary skills made Joseph "Joe" Darling CBE (21 November 1870 &ndash 2 January 1946 was an Australian Cricketer who played 34 Test matches as a Trent Bridge is a Test, One-day international and County Cricket ground located in West Bridgford, Nottinghamshire, Year 1899 ( MDCCCXCIX) was a Common year starting on Sunday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common Archibald (Archie Campbell MacLaren ( 1 December 1871 in Whalley Range, Manchester, Lancashire – 17 November Joseph "Joe" Darling CBE (21 November 1870 &ndash 2 January 1946 was an Australian Cricketer who played 34 Test matches as a Lord's Cricket Ground (generally known as Lord's) is a cricket Year 1899 ( MDCCCXCIX) was a Common year starting on Sunday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common Archibald (Archie Campbell MacLaren ( 1 December 1871 in Whalley Range, Manchester, Lancashire – 17 November Joseph "Joe" Darling CBE (21 November 1870 &ndash 2 January 1946 was an Australian Cricketer who played 34 Test matches as a Trent Bridge is a Test, One-day international and County Cricket ground located in West Bridgford, Nottinghamshire, Year 1899 ( MDCCCXCIX) was a Common year starting on Sunday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common Archibald (Archie Campbell MacLaren ( 1 December 1871 in Whalley Range, Manchester, Lancashire – 17 November Joseph "Joe" Darling CBE (21 November 1870 &ndash 2 January 1946 was an Australian Cricketer who played 34 Test matches as a Headingley Stadium is a sporting complex in the Leeds suburb of Headingley in West Yorkshire, England. Year 1899 ( MDCCCXCIX) was a Common year starting on Sunday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common Archibald (Archie Campbell MacLaren ( 1 December 1871 in Whalley Range, Manchester, Lancashire – 17 November Joseph "Joe" Darling CBE (21 November 1870 &ndash 2 January 1946 was an Australian Cricketer who played 34 Test matches as a The Oval PavilionJPG|250px|right|thumb|The Members Pavilion]] The Oval is an international Cricket ground in Kennington, London

References

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