Eddie Gilbert, the renowned Aboriginal cricketer from Australia, left an indelible mark on the sport, despite his short-lived career. Born on June 29, 1905, in the Cherbourg Aboriginal Settlement in Queensland, Gilbert emerged as one of the fastest bowlers of his time. Known for his lightning pace and unusual bowling action, Gilbert’s contributions to the game continue to reverberate throughout history.
From a young age, Gilbert showcased exceptional talent in cricket, and his journey from the Queensland Colts XI to the first-class cricket stage was swift. In 1931, during a Sheffield Shield match against New South Wales in Brisbane, Gilbert made headlines with a remarkable display of skill. In his first over, he dismissed two legendary batsmen, Wendell Bill and Sir Donald Bradman, without conceding a single run. Bradman, who later recounted the experience, acknowledged that Gilbert’s deliveries were the fastest he had ever faced.
Standing at just 5 feet 7 inches tall, Gilbert’s physical stature defied his ability to generate immense pace. With his elongated arms and lightning-fast run-up, he bowled at great speed, often from a run-up as short as four paces. His unusual action, characterized by a pronounced arc that ended with his hand almost touching the ground and head close to knee level, led to debates surrounding the legality of his bowling action. Some suggested his right arm may have bent during delivery, leading to occasional controversies and doubts from umpires.
While Gilbert’s suspect action prevented him from achieving high honors, his talent was undeniable. He possessed a natural flair for the game, leaving opponents in awe of his skill. Although his career was overshadowed by the scrutiny surrounding his action, Gilbert remained a respected figure in the cricketing world. Films were made in an attempt to settle the debate, but no consensus was reached. Still, the controversies only served to enhance Gilbert’s legend.
By the time Gilbert’s career came to an end in 1936, he had played 19 Shield matches, taking an impressive 73 wickets at an average of 29.75. Additionally, he earned accolades for his performances against touring teams like the MCC, West Indies, and South Africa, claiming 14 wickets in matches against them. Despite the limited opportunities to showcase his skills on the big stage, Gilbert’s impact on cricket history remains significant.
Following his retirement, Gilbert’s health deteriorated, and he spent his final years in ill health. He passed away on January 9, 1978, at the age of 69, in the Wolston Park Hospital near Brisbane. Despite his absence from the cricketing scene for many years, Gilbert’s legacy as one of Australia’s greatest Aboriginal cricketers lived on.
Eddie Gilbert’s story inspires cricket enthusiasts to this day. His explosive bowling and relentless pursuit of excellence in the face of adversity serve as a testament to his spirit and determination. As a symbol of both incredible talent and the challenges faced by indigenous athletes, Gilbert’s influence extends beyond the boundaries of the cricket field. His name remains etched in cricketing history as a true legend of the sport.
