“How’s the wicket, Bert?”
During the 4-Day Victoria v South Australia Sheffield Shield match, held 13-17 November 1936 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the play was often interrupted by rain squalls, causing the groundsmen to cover their carefully prepared wicket with tarpaulins to protect it.
“How’s the wicket, Bert?” is the question on everyone’s lips – Will it be a batsman’s nightmare? A bowler’s dream? Will the spectators see a full day’s play or will rain spoil it?
With a twinkle in his eye, Bert “Maker of Pitches” Luttrell, the MCG curator’s response is: “It’s not the wicket when batsmen get out early, it’s good bowling!” FRC
MCK150 Inkjet print by John Gollings on Canson Platine Fibre Rag
Published: The Age 17 November 1936
Featured in "Newsworthy: Melbourne in photographs 1933-1936" exhibition at East Melbourne Library, October to December 2023. Exhibition caption by project volunteer, Fiona Collyer.