Doug Ring

Douglas Thomas Ring: The Spin Master of Australian Cricket

Imagine a cricketer who could weave magic with his leg spin, turning the game’s tide with every delivery. That’s Douglas Thomas Ring, an Australian cricketer whose legacy in the sport is as intriguing as it is underappreciated. From 1948 to 1953, Ring played for Victoria and Australia, leaving a trail of wickets that still resonate today.

Ring’s Early Days: A Spin Master Emerges

Was Ring just another leg spinner in the annals of cricket history? Not quite. His journey began with a top score of 145 runs and an impressive tally of 426 wickets in first-class cricket matches. In his Test debut against India, he took six for 120, earning him a spot on Australia’s tour of England in 1948.

The Invincibles: A Legendary Tour

Leading the tour was none other than the legendary Donald Bradman, and Ring played his part. Though not prominent, he managed to take 60 first-class wickets at an average of 21.81, a feat that stood out among regular bowlers.

A Test Match Debut: A Single Wicket

Ring’s Test debut was memorable but brief. He played in one Test match and took just one wicket in his only innings. However, he did bat once for 50 runs, showing his all-rounder capabilities.

New Zealand Tour: Seven Wickets in a Match

Ring’s next significant outing was on a non-Test tour of New Zealand, where he took seven for 88 in a three-day match. Yet, by the 1950–51 season, Jack Iverson had overtaken him in the Test match pecking order.

The Matchwinner at Brisbane

When the West Indies arrived for their 1951-52 tour, Ring was selected as the spin option. He proved to be the matchwinner with six wickets for 80 runs in the second innings. His contribution didn’t stop there; he also scored a crucial 65 runs in the third and fourth Tests.

The Series-Winning Run

Ring’s batting made a significant impact, cementing his place in Australian cricket folklore. In the fifth Test, he reached the boundary by clearing fielders, earning most credit for a series-winning run. His performance was a testament to his all-round abilities.

The 1952-53 Series Against South Africa

In the 1952-53 series against South Africa, Ring captained Victoria and took six wickets for 72 in Brisbane’s first innings. However, he struggled with runs conceded from his bowling, taking only seven more wickets across the five-match series.

England Tour: A Brief Return

Ring’s final Test appearance was on a second tour of England in 1953. He took two wickets and scored 18 and 7 as the match ended in a tight draw. His performance, while commendable, didn’t quite live up to expectations.

Later Career: A Diverse Path

After retiring from cricket, Ring worked for the Victorian Department of Primary Industries until 1982. He also served as a cricket commentator on Melbourne radio station 3DB and later on television presenting HSV-7 program World of Sport.

Ring’s Legacy: A Tall Spin Master

Ring was 6 feet tall, allowing him to impart spin on the ball with precision. As a batsman, he was a genuine all-rounder but played the ball in the air, preventing high scores. His contributions to Australian cricket were significant, and his legacy continues to inspire young cricketers today.

Ring’s story is one of resilience and adaptability. From his early days as a leg spinner to his later career as a commentator, he left an indelible mark on the sport. As we look back at his journey, it’s clear that Douglas Thomas Ring was more than just another cricketer; he was a master of spin who wove magic with every delivery.