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Triple Centurion Australian Test Legend Bob Cowper Passes Away At 84

Soumyajit Dutta

Bob Cowper [Source: @CricketAustralia/X]Bob Cowper [Source: @CricketAustralia/X]

Former Australian Test cricketer Bob Cowper, celebrated for his historic 307 against England in 1966, has passed away at 84. The left-handed batter and off-spinner represented Australia in 27 Tests between 1964 and 1968, amassing 2,061 runs at 46.84 and claiming 36 wickets. 

A Victorian stalwart, he dominated first-class cricket with 10,595 runs and 183 wickets before retiring at 28 to forge a career in finance. Cowper later returned to cricket as an ICC match referee, cementing his legacy as a multifaceted contributor to the sport.

The Cricketer Who Knew More Than Cricket!

Bob Cowper, a sharp-minded stockbroker and merchant banker, was too ambitious to stay long in a sport that offered limited financial rewards. His standout performance came in 1966 when he scored a marathon 307 against England in Melbourne, the highest Test score on Australian soil until Matthew Hayden surpassed it in 2003-04. 

Known for his creative cricketing mind and frustration with the treatment of Australian cricketers, Cowper also left a lasting influence on Ian Chappell, who later championed players' rights.

Cricket Australia Mourns The Stalwart's Loss

Cricket Australia honoured him, stating, "Cowper was an enormously talented left-hand batter renowned for his elegant stroke play, his patience at the crease and his ability to amass big totals."

Cricket Australia Chair Mike Baird paid tribute, "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Bob Cowper, who was a hugely respected figure in Australian cricket...Our deepest condolences to Bob's family, friends and former teammates at this very sad time."

Cowper’s dual impact, as a cricketing pioneer and advocate for players’ rights, ensured his enduring influence on the sport long after his final match.