Ernie Toshack with the Australian cricket team in England in 1948

Ernie Toshack: The Unsung Hero of the 1948 Ashes Tour

Ernie Toshack was a pivotal member of Donald Bradman’s undefeated Australian cricket team that toured England in 1948. His journey is a testament to the resilience and skill required to make it at the highest level of the game.

The Unlikely Journey

Imagine being selected for such an elite squad, only to face a persistent knee injury that threatened your career. That was Ernie Toshack’s reality in 1948. He made his debut in 1945 and quickly became a regular member of the Australian national team, playing eight Tests and taking 36 wickets before facing this formidable challenge.

Clearance and Return

Despite being ruled unfit by two doctors, Toshack was given clearance after three specialists from New South Wales presented a more optimistic outlook. This decision proved crucial as he returned to the team for Surrey at The Oval, where he scored eight runs and took one wicket. His journey back to form was not easy, but his determination paid off.

Strategic Bowling

Toshack focused on leg stump in cricket matches, a strategy that some observers deemed negative. However, former Australian batsman Jack Fingleton defended it as a method that forced most balls to be played. This approach was instrumental in Toshack’s performances during the 1948 Ashes tour.

Key Performances

In the Second Test against England at Lord’s, Bradman utilized Toshack to bowl defensive leg theory to slow scoring. Toshack took one wicket for 60 runs, including the wicket of Joe Hardstaff junior for 43. His performance was a blend of strategy and skill, showcasing his value to the team.

Conserving Energy

In the Second Test at Lord’s, Australia won the toss and batted first before being bowled out for 215. Bradman then decided not to pursue victory and instead relied on his second-choice bowlers, led by Toshack, to conserve energy. England was bowled out for 186 in their response, giving Australia a comfortable win.

Aggravating the Injury

Toshack’s knee injury flared again in the Fourth Test at Headingley, and he was removed from the attack after night-watchman Bedser hit him for three consecutive fours. After lunch, Toshack bowled Jack Crapp with an inside-edged half volley for five to leave England at 5/447. He ended with an ineffective 1/112 from 35 overs as England made 496.

Final Days

Toshack aggravated his knee injury and was taken to London for cartilage surgery, ending his bowling duties for the match and his Test career. Despite this setback, he played a crucial role in Australia’s rearguard action late on the third day, helping minimize England’s first innings lead.

Conclusion

Ernie Toshack’s story is one of perseverance and strategic brilliance. His performances during the 1948 Ashes tour, despite his knee injury, highlight the importance of adaptability and tactical thinking in cricket. Even though he played a limited role due to his position at No. 10 and 11 alongside Johnston, Toshack’s contributions were invaluable.