Ashley Mallett

Ashley Mallett was a prominent Australian off spin bowler and a prolific cricket writer. He played 38 Test matches between 1968 and 1980, claiming 132 wickets and forming a key part of the successful Australian sides of the early 1970s. Renowned for his flight and guile, Mallett later built a distinguished second career as an author, biographer, and coach, particularly influencing spin bowling in Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

Early life and career

Ashley Alexander Mallett was born in Sydney but moved to Perth as a youth, where he began his cricketing journey. He made his Sheffield Shield debut for Western Australia in the 1965-66 season before transferring to South Australia in 1967, seeking greater opportunities. His consistent performances for South Australia, including a match-winning haul against New South Wales, quickly brought him to the attention of the national selectors. His first-class debut had been against a MCC touring team, providing early experience against high-quality English batsmen.

International cricket career

Mallett made his Test debut against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in 1968, taking the wicket of Ajit Wadekar. He cemented his place during the 1972 Ashes tour of England, where his 12 wickets at The Oval were instrumental in squaring the series. A highlight of his career was his best figures of 8 for 59 against Pakistan at the Adelaide Oval in 1972. He was a regular member of Ian Chappell's team throughout the 1970s, playing key roles in series against the West Indies, England, and New Zealand. His final Test was against Pakistan in Karachi in 1980.

Style and legacy

Nicknamed "Rowdy," Mallett was a classical off-spinner who relied on subtle variations of flight, dip, and turn rather than excessive side-spin. He modeled his action on the great English bowler Jim Laker and was considered one of the finest Australian off-spinners of his generation. His ability to bowl long, containing spells was highly valued by captains like Ian Chappell and Greg Chappell. He was part of a formidable bowling attack that often included fast bowlers like Dennis Lillee and Jeff Thomson, providing crucial balance.

Post-playing career and writing

After retiring from first-class cricket in 1981, Mallett embarked on a highly successful career as a cricket writer and commentator. He authored over twenty books, including acclaimed biographies of Clarrie Grimmett, Victor Trumper, and Hugh Trumble. He served as a spin bowling consultant for Sri Lanka in the 1990s, mentoring Muttiah Muralitharan, and later worked with the Pakistan Cricket Board. His journalistic work appeared in major publications like The Australian and Wisden.

Personal life

Mallett was married and had children. He maintained a strong connection to South Australia, living in Adelaide for much of his life. In his later years, he battled cancer but continued to write and contribute to the game. He was a respected figure at the Bradman Museum in Bowral and remained a keen observer of Australian cricket until his passing.

Category:Australian cricketers Category:Australian cricket writers Category:1945 births