Balcony Banter: My First Test – Australia v India, MCG, February, 1948
Citrus Bob Utber loves his cricket!
For many years, Bob has presented Test match reports for The Footy Almanac clearly emphasising his love and knowledge of the game.
Bob has written about the his first ever Test match he witnessed and it is a classic piece composed in his inimitable style.
The story was first published on the MCC Balcony Banter site and can be read HERE
More from Citrus Bob Utber HERE
To return to the www.footyalmanac.com.au home page click HERE
Our writers are independent contributors. The opinions expressed in their articles are their own. They are not the views, nor do they reflect the views, of Malarkey Publications.
Do you enjoy the Almanac concept?
And want to ensure it continues in its current form, and better? To help keep things ticking over please consider making your own contribution.
Become an Almanac (annual) member – CLICK HERE
One-off financial contribution – CLICK HERE
Regular financial contribution (monthly EFT) – CLICK HERE
About Almanac Admin
Loved it Bob.
If Bradman had gone on that day he ( in all probability) would have sullied his career average of 99.4. He may of course have improved it but if dismissed (or retired, rather than retired hurt) on 57 he would have ended with a career average of 98.5. The mystique of his last game at The Oval and his infamous dismissal by Eric Hollies would have been ruined! So in a de facto sense you actually witnessed a significant moment in world cricket history!
That’s a fabulous story, Bob.
Such great names you saw.
Great memories CB. Neil Harvey was a great favourite of my dad who was also a nimble left handed batsman. Dad is going strong at 89 and always says Harvey had the best ever footwork to spinners.
Looking at the scorecard you were there for Day 2 and Vinoo Mankad went on to make a hundred for India on Day 3. I had no idea he was an opening bat. Always assumed he was a bowler from the term that popularised his name. But Cricinfo says he was the greatest Indian all rounder before Kapil Dev taking 162 test wickets as a left arm spinner and averaging 31 with the bat.
Keith Miller only bowled 3 overs in the Indian first innings of 331. Injured or a falling out with Bradman?
I enjoyed that story the first time I read it – and enjoyed it again!!!
Never been to the MCG to watch a cricket match. One of these days it will happen.
What a first Test to go to! Really enjoyable piece Bob.
Terrific Citrus. What an experience!