Unsung Heroes of New Zealand Cricket

New Zealand has been home to some of the iconic cricketers in the world. From Richard Hadlee to Kane Williamson, several Kiwi players have made enormous contributions to the sport of cricket. However, there have also been players in New Zealand cricket who made significant efforts in the field of cricket but did not receive due recognition.

Here are some of the unsung heroes of New Zealand Cricket: 

Jeremy Coney

Jeremy Coney will be remembered for his  role in New Zealand’s historic series victory against Pakistan in 1985. He led the Black Caps to three consecutive series wins the following year. Coney was not just a classy batter, but also a slow-medium bowler. His most memorable bowling figures came at Headingley in 1983 against Australia where he took 2-21 and 2-30 including the wickets of Allan Lamb and Ian Botham on the third day that helped New Zealand in historic success. 

John Wright

 John Wright made his Test debut against England in early 1978, but successes did not come too fast. It took him three years to record his first Test ton. However, he matured with time and ended his Test career with more than 5000 runs at a highly respectable average of 37.82. He smashed 12 Test hundreds for the Kiwis. The opener was a consistent performer in the 1980s and early 1990s, providing a solid foundation at the top of the batting order.

 John Fulton Reid

John Fulton Reid had a remarkably successful Test career between 1979 and 1986.  Having played only 19 Tests for the Kiwis, his average of 46.28 is quite impressive. Even more impressive is his 100/50 ratio of 6/8. He was the fastest to reach 1000 Test runs among the Kiwis, in terms of innings. Despite not always being in the spotlight, Reid was a reliable batter in the middle-order with consistent performances.

Lance Cairns

Lance Cairns was a dynamic all-rounder with his power-hitting abilities and unorthodox bowling action. His 5 for 33 at Wellington in February 1981 ensured a comfortable victory for the Kiwis against India. Cairns was declared the Man of the Match for his bowling figures of 7-74 and 3-70 July 28, 1983. Cairns bid adieu to New Zealand cricket on a winning note at WACA in 1985. 

Also Read: Rise of Kyle Jamieson: New Zealand’s Next Bowling Star

 John Bracewell

John Bracewell was a vital all-rounder for New Zealand Cricket. His strike rate of 82 with the ball was considered remarkable in the 1980s, when most of the spin bowlers in the world bowled defensive. He was adjudged Man of the Match for a losing side at SCG in 1985, where he scored an unbeaten 83 for the Kiwis in the first innings. When New Zealand won at Trent Bridge in the northern summer, Bracewell played the key role scoring his only Test ton.