Sporting legends : Craig McDermott - Aussie bowling spearhead - Career HLs , video

 



Craig John McDermott, born on April 14, 1965, in Ipswich, Queensland, Australia, was one of Australia’s premier fast bowlers during the 1980s and early 1990s. A tall, aggressive right-arm fast bowler, McDermott was renowned for his pace, bounce, and ability to move the ball both ways. He led Australia’s bowling attack during a transitional era with remarkable consistency and was feared by batsmen around the world for his relentless hostility and match-winning spells.

Career Stats:

Test Cricket:

  • Matches: 71
  • Wickets: 291
  • Bowling Average: 28.63
  • Best Bowling (Innings): 8/97
  • 5-wicket hauls: 14
  • 10-wicket match hauls: 2
  • Runs: 940
  • Batting Average: 12.20
  • Catches: 19

ODI Cricket:

  • Matches: 138
  • Wickets: 203
  • Bowling Average: 24.72
  • Best Bowling: 5/44
  • 5-wicket hauls: 1
  • Runs: 432
  • Batting Average: 7.08
  • Catches: 27

First-Class Cricket:

  • Matches: 126
  • Wickets: 489
  • Bowling Average: 27.13
  • Best Bowling: 8/97
  • Runs: 1,494
  • Batting Average: 12.74


Career Highlights:
McDermott made his Test debut in 1984 against the West Indies at just 19 years of age and quickly established himself as a fast-bowling spearhead. His breakout came during the 1985 Ashes, taking 30 wickets in the series. He played a crucial role in Australia's 1987 World Cup triumph, especially in the semi-final against Pakistan where he took 5/44. Despite struggling with injuries, he remained Australia’s strike bowler for nearly a decade. His consistency was evident in Ashes series where he constantly troubled English batsmen, taking 84 wickets in 17 Ashes Tests. McDermott’s best Test figures (8/97) came against England in the 1990–91 series. He was also part of the 1996 World Cup squad and played his final Test that year.

Major Bowling Performances:

  • 8/97 vs. England (1991 Ashes) – One of his most destructive performances that led to a series victory.
  • 5/44 vs. Pakistan (1987 World Cup semi-final) – A match-winning spell that helped Australia reach the final.
  • Numerous 5-wicket hauls across key series including against the West Indies and India.

Legacy:
Craig McDermott is remembered as one of Australia’s most reliable and effective fast bowlers of his era. Despite frequent injuries, he remained a tireless worker and a match-winner. Post-retirement, he played a vital role as a bowling coach for Australia, shaping a new generation of fast bowlers including Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins. His contributions to Australian cricket, both on and off the field, have made him a respected figure in the game's history.

Watch McDermott's fiery bowling vs India in 1991 Gabba

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