MELBOURNE, Australia — The cricket world is mourning the loss of Bob Cowper, who has passed away at the age of 84 after battling an undisclosed illness, as announced by Cricket Australia on Sunday.
Bob Cowper etched his name into cricket history when he became the first batsman to score a triple century in a Test match on Australian soil. Between 1964 and 1968, he played in 27 Tests for Australia, amassing 2,061 runs at a notable average of 46.84. His accomplishments included five centuries and 36 wickets, thanks to his skillful part-time off-spin bowling.
Cowper, a left-handed batsman, was celebrated for his impressive stroke-play and resilience at the crease. His career was highlighted by a historic innings of 307 runs off 589 balls against England, which took place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in February 1966. This marathon innings lasted 12 hours and was the only Test triple century scored in Australia in the 20th century, and it was only the 10th ever achieved worldwide during that period. Importantly, this milestone came after he was recalled to the team at his home ground, following his designation as the 12th man in the preceding Test in Adelaide.
Cowper’s prowess on home turf was evident, with his Australian batting average of 75.78 standing as the second-highest ever, trailing only behind the legendary Donald Bradman. Following his retirement from cricket in 1968, Cowper transitioned to a career in stockbroking and later served as an ICC match referee. His contributions to the sport were formally recognized in 2023 when he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia.
Reflecting on Cowper’s legacy, Cricket Australia chairman Mike Baird conveyed, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Bob Cowper, who was a highly respected figure in Australian cricket. Bob was a remarkable batter, forever remembered for his iconic triple century at the MCG and his substantial impact on the Australian and Victorian teams during the 1960s.”
Bob Cowper is survived by his wife, Dale, and his two daughters, Olivia and Sera. His absence will be acutely felt by the cricket fraternity and all those who admired his contributions to the game.