Sporting legends : Daryl Cullinan - South African batting superstar - Career HLs , video

 

Daryl Cullinan was born on March 4, 1967, in Kimberley, South Africa. He was a stylish right-handed batsman known for his elegant stroke play and ability to score runs against top bowling attacks. Cullinan was one of South Africa’s most dependable middle-order batsmen during the 1990s and early 2000s, often leading the team’s batting lineup with his technical proficiency. He was also known for his struggles against Shane Warne, but his contributions to South African cricket remain significant.

Style of Play

Cullinan was a technically gifted batsman who relied on timing rather than power. His cover drives and flicks through midwicket were particularly eye-catching. He was comfortable against both pace and spin, though he famously had difficulties against Shane Warne, who dismissed him multiple times. Despite this, Cullinan was one of South Africa’s premier batsmen, especially in Test cricket.

Batting, Bowling & Fielding Records

Test Cricket

• Matches: 70
• Runs: 4,554
• Batting Average: 44.21
• 100s/50s: 14/20
• Highest Score: 275*
• Wickets: 0
• Catches: 63

One Day Internationals (ODIs)

• Matches: 138
• Runs: 3,860
• Batting Average: 32.99
• 100s/50s: 3/37
• Highest Score: 124
• Wickets: 1
• Catches: 66

First-Class Cricket

• Matches: 184
• Runs: 12,298
• Batting Average: 43.62
• 100s/50s: 36/55
• Highest Score: 337*

Career Highlights

• Became South Africa’s youngest first-class centurion at 16 years old.
• Scored a career-best 275 against New Zealand in 1999*, then the highest Test score by a South African.
• Played a key role in South Africa’s rise in international cricket after their return from isolation.
• Notched up 14 Test centuries, establishing himself as a reliable middle-order batsman.
• Scored 124 in an ODI against Pakistan in 1996, one of his finest white-ball innings.
• Part of South Africa’s squad for the 1996 and 1999 World Cups, contributing crucial runs in both tournaments.

Major Batting Innings

• 275 vs New Zealand (1999, Auckland)* – His highest Test score, showcasing his ability to bat long periods.
• 124 vs Pakistan (1996, ODI) – A match-winning century in a tough contest.
• 153 vs India (1996, Calcutta) – A dominant Test innings against a quality bowling attack.
• 103 vs England (1995, Johannesburg) – A crucial century in a home Test series.
• 210 vs Free State (First-Class, 1994) – A powerful domestic performance that highlighted his consistency.

Legacy

• Remembered as one of South Africa’s most elegant and consistent batsmen of his era.
• Held the record for South Africa’s highest individual Test score for a time.
• Despite his struggles against Shane Warne, he contributed significantly to South Africa’s successes in the 1990s.
• Worked as a cricket commentator and analyst after retirement, sharing his deep knowledge of the game.
• His achievements inspired many young South African cricketers, contributing to the nation's strong cricketing legacy.

Watch Cullinan scoring a dazzling 100 vs England in 1999-2000 test series in South Africa