Robert Howard Vance, commonly known as Bert Vance, was a versatile cricket player hailing from New Zealand. Born on June 5, 1955, in Wellington, Vance enjoyed a long and successful career in cricket, making a significant impact both domestically and internationally.
Vance initially began his career as a wicketkeeper, displaying great agility and skills behind the stumps. However, he soon realized his potential as a batsman and transformed himself into a reliable opening batsman for his team. Vance’s dedication and hard work paid off, and his versatility eventually earned him the opportunity to captain his side, becoming a highly respected leader.
For over a decade, Vance remained a loyal member of the Wellington team, making a staggering 199 appearances for them. During this time, he scored an impressive 6440 runs at an average of 34.43, establishing himself as a crucial figure in the team’s success. His consistent batting performances and valuable contributions earned him recognition at the international level, although it came relatively late in his career.
In 1987-88, at the age of almost 33, Vance was finally selected to represent New Zealand against England. In his debut match, he showcased his talent, scoring 43 runs while batting at No.3. Unfortunately, rain interrupted the match, preventing Vance from making an even bigger impact. However, his performance did not go unnoticed, and he was given further opportunities to prove himself.
The following summer, Vance played twice against Pakistan, impressing with a score of 68 in Auckland. He also had the chance to face Australia later that summer, showcasing his skills against some of the best bowlers in the world. In addition to his Test appearances, Vance competed in eight One Day Internationals (ODIs), displaying his versatility in the shorter format of the game as well.
Vance’s standout moment in ODIs came during the Sharjah Cup in 1987-88. He exhibited his batting prowess by scoring a remarkable 186 runs at an average of 46.50. His most memorable innings during the tournament was a blistering knock of 96 in the semi-final against Sri Lanka, which earned him the prestigious Man of the Match award. This performance solidified his reputation as a consistent and impactful batsman on the international stage.
Although Vance achieved notable success throughout his career, he also experienced a challenging moment that etched his name in the record books. In a first-class match against Canterbury in 1990, Vance conceded the most runs ever in a single over, conceding a whopping 77 runs. Despite this setback, Vance remained resilient, continuing to contribute to his team’s success in subsequent matches.
Off the field, Vance was known for his professionalism and dedication to the sport. A true embodiment of sportsmanship, he inspired and motivated his teammates through his commitment and leadership qualities. Vance’s calm demeanor and ability to thrive under pressure earned him respect from players and fans alike.
Today, Vance’s legacy remains an important part of New Zealand cricket history. His contributions to the game, both domestically and internationally, have left an indelible mark. As fans reminisce about his exceptional performances, they remember Bert Vance as a talented and versatile cricketer who passionately represented his country.
