New Zealand

Brian McKechnie

Born: November 06, 1953, Gore, Southland

Brian McKechnie bio

Brian John McKechnie, born on 17th December 1953, is a former New Zealand cricket player and rugby union player, who achieved double international status during his career. Despite not having the most impressive statistics in both cricket and rugby, he made a name for himself in an era when versatility and adaptability were valued in the sporting world.

As a young teenager, McKechnie made his debut for Otago in the Plunkett Shield in the 1971-72 season. Despite his limited success in terms of individual performances, he played a crucial role in helping Otago win the championship. His all-round skills as a bits-and-pieces cricketer made him an asset in the one-day format of the game, leading to his selection in the national side.

McKechnie earned his place in the New Zealand cricket team and went on to make 14 appearances for his country. However, his most memorable moment came during the infamous underarm delivery incident in 1981. Facing Trevor Chappell’s underarm ball at the MCG, McKechnie became a central figure in one of cricket’s most controversial moments. This incident not only overshadowed his cricketing career but also highlighted his resilience and ability to handle challenging situations.

Aside from his cricketing achievements, McKechnie also excelled in rugby union. Initially, he was noted for his reliable boot as a center and made his debut for Southland in 1976. Surprisingly, his first appearance came after he pulled out of a cricket tour of India due to a hand injury. This versatility caught the attention of the national selectors, resulting in his full-back debut against France in 1977.

However, McKechnie’s rugby career was not without its highs and lows. Following a disappointing performance against Australia in 1978, he was left out of the subsequent tour of Britain. But, his determination and resilience in the face of adversity earned him a recall, and he once again found himself involved in a controversial moment. With Wales leading 12-10, his penalty kick secured a victory for the All Blacks, despite a disputed dive at a line-out. McKechnie continued to make impactful contributions in subsequent Tests against England and Scotland, both of which were won, resulting in the All Blacks securing their first-ever Grand Slam.

After retiring from his dual career, McKechnie stayed involved in the sporting world as a Canterbury and national selector. He contributed his expertise and experience to the development of New Zealand cricket. While his individual statistics may not have garnered much attention, his ability to adapt to different roles and his involvement in significant sporting moments solidified his place in sporting history.

Whether it was facing the underarm delivery or securing a crucial penalty kick, Brian John McKechnie distinguished himself as a versatile and dedicated sportsman. His achievements in both cricket and rugby serve as a testament to his resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to his teams. Today, he is remembered not only for his contributions to New Zealand’s sporting legacy but also for his ability to rise above controversy and deliver when it mattered most.

Brian McKechnie career stats

Batting stats

Batting Matches Innings Nos Runs High score Ave BF SR 100s 50s 4s 6s Ct St
Tests - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
T20Is - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
ODIs 14 8 4 54 27 13.5 145 37.24 0 0 - - 2 0
FC 50 73 9 1169 51 18.26 - - 0 2 - - 24 0
List A 26 18 6 168 32 14 - - 0 0 - - 3 0
T20s - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Bowling stats

Bowling Matches Innings Balls Runs Wkts BBI BBM Ave Econ SR 4w 5w 10w
Tests - - - - - - - - - - - - -
T20Is - - - - - - - - - - - - -
ODIs 14 14 818 495 19 3/23 3/23 26.05 3.63 43 0 0 0
FC 50 - 8154 3065 100 4/24 - 30.65 2.25 81.5 - 0 0
List A 26 - 1450 798 32 3/23 3/23 24.93 3.3 45.3 0 0 0
T20s - - - - - - - - - - - - -

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