Queensland: The cricketing community is in mourning as former Australian fast bowler Peter Allan passed away at the age of 87 on Thursday. Known for his remarkable achievement of taking ten wickets in a single innings during a Sheffield Shield match, Allan made a lasting impact on the sport.
Allan’s international career may have been brief, but his contribution to Australian cricket was significant. He earned his sole Test cap during the 1965-66 Ashes series against England, playing on his home ground at the Gabba. In that memorable match, he showcased his skills by taking crucial wickets, including the dismissal of the English captain, Mike Smith.
Had it not been for an unfortunate illness, Allan would have had more opportunities to represent Australia. He was part of the Australian team’s Caribbean tour in 1965 but was unable to play a Test due to his ailment.
However, Allan’s name will forever be etched in the annals of cricket history for his exceptional performance in a Sheffield Shield match in March 1966. In less than a month after his Test debut, he accomplished the rare feat of taking all ten wickets in an innings for Queensland against Victoria at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). He became only the second player, after Tim Wall of New South Wales in 1933, to achieve this remarkable milestone. Another Australian, Ian Brayshaw, would replicate this achievement a year later against Victoria.
Throughout his decade-long first-class career from 1959 to 1969, Allan left an indelible mark on the game. He claimed a total of 206 wickets in 57 matches, averaging an impressive 26.10. His bowling prowess included 12 five-wicket hauls and three ten-wicket hauls. At the time, his career tally of 182 wickets at an average of 25.29 in the Sheffield Shield stood as the all-time record.
Allan’s contributions to cricket extended beyond his individual achievements. He was a valued member of the Queensland team and played a pivotal role in the success of the state’s cricketing endeavors.
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