Craig John McDermott, commonly known as Craig McDermott, is a former Australian cricketer who was born on April 14, 1965, in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. McDermott made a significant impact on the cricket world during his career as a fast bowler in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Although his career was hampered by various injuries, McDermott’s determination and skill allowed him to become one of Australia’s leading bowlers.
McDermott’s cricket journey began in 1985 when he burst onto the scene as a young 20-year-old player during the Ashes series in England. In this series, he showcased his exceptional talent by taking an impressive 30 wickets in six Tests. This early success established him as a promising talent within the Australian cricketing community.
Throughout his career, McDermott faced numerous setbacks due to injuries, including a twisted bowel and a broken ankle. However, he consistently fought back and regained his spot in the national team. McDermott’s unwavering determination and tenacity allowed him to establish himself as Australia’s premier strike bowler in the early 1990s.
Known for his classic side-on action and textbook outswing, McDermott was a formidable force who could dismantle any batting order. While not as flashy as some of his contemporaries such as Dennis Lillee and Shane Warne, McDermott possessed impeccable skill and precision. He particularly shone in matches against England, capturing 84 wickets in 17 Tests, including two eight-wicket hauls and eight five-wicket hauls. One of his most memorable performances came in Perth in 1990-91, where he single-handedly dismantled England’s batting lineup, taking 8 for 97 as they collapsed from 191 for 2 to 244 all out.
McDermott’s career faced further challenges towards the end, as injuries took their toll. He missed crucial matches, including the 1993 Ashes tour, the historic victory in the Caribbean in 1994-95, and the World Cup in 1996. Despite these setbacks, McDermott’s impact on Australian cricket was undeniable.
After retiring from professional cricket, McDermott encountered personal and financial difficulties, forcing him to sell his home and declare bankruptcy due to the failure of his real estate business. However, he did not let these hardships define him and made a triumphant return to cricket in 2009, taking up a coaching role with Australia’s Centre of Excellence.
As a coach, McDermott worked closely with several young Australian fast bowlers, including James Pattinson, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood. His expertise in the art of fast bowling made him the ideal candidate to succeed Troy Cooley as Australia’s bowling coach in May 2011. During his tenure, McDermott oversaw significant success, most notably during the home series against India. Under McDermott’s guidance, the team and its fast bowlers achieved outstanding results.
However, the demands of the team’s busy overseas schedule led to McDermott stepping down from his role as bowling coach in May 2012. Despite this decision, his impact on Australian cricket cannot be overstated.
Craig McDermott’s journey in cricket is a testament to his resilience, skill, and unwavering commitment to the game. His performances on the field and contributions as a coach have left an indelible mark on Australian cricket. McDermott will forever be remembered as a skilled fast bowler and a valuable mentor to the next generation of Australian cricketers.