Former Australia Test cricketer Bob Cowper dies at 84

Former Australian batting all-rounder Bob Cowper, who was the country’s first Test triple centurion, passed away at the age of 84 after a prolonged illness. The left-hand batter registered his name in the history books for his iconic 307-run marathon against England at the MCG in 1966.

Cowper played 27 Tests for Australia between 1964 and 1968, scoring 2061 runs at an average of 46.84, with five centuries to his name. His most memorable innings of a 12-hour, 589-ball triple century is one of Test cricket’s most legendary performances and was the only triple ton scored in Australia during the 20th century. That knock also stood as the highest Test score on Australian soil until Matthew Hayden’s 380 in 2003 against Zimbabwe.

Bob was a wonderful batter who will always be remembered: CA chair Mike Baird

The former was also a handy part-time off-spinner, picking 36 wickets. In first-class cricket, he hammered 10,595 runs at an average of 53.78 across 147 matches, primarily representing Victoria. His record includes 26 centuries and 183 wickets.

Cricket Australia (CA) paid tribute to Cowper, calling him an enormously talented left-hand batter known for his batting, patience at the crease, and the ability to score big totals.

"We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Bob Cowper, who was a hugely respected figure in Australian cricket. Bob was a wonderful batter who will always be remembered for his famous triple century at the MCG, as well as his strong influence on the Australian and Victorian teams of the 1960s. He was also a significant contributor to cricket in other roles, including as an ICC match referee, and his wisdom was always keenly sought. On behalf of Cricket Australia, our deepest condolences to Bob's family, friends and former teammates at this very sad time," said Cricket Australia chair Mike Baird in a statement. 

He retired at just 28 to pursue a career in stockbroking and merchant banking. Cricket historian Gideon Haigh had mentioned that Cowper was too intelligent and ambitious to stay long in a game providing mere financial rewards. However, he remained connected to the game, later serving as an ICC match referee. His contributions to the game were formally recognized in 2023 when he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).