Ian William Geddes Johnson was a prominent Australian cricketer and administrator who left his mark on the sport both on and off the field. Born on December 22, 1917, Johnson captained Australia in 17 of his 45 Test matches. While his captaincy record might not be the most impressive, he was a talented cricketer and a forward-thinking individual.
Johnson, an off-spinner, hailed from Victoria and made his debut for the state team at the tender age of 18. Following his service during World War II, he emerged as a stalwart in Australia’s bowling attack. In a cricketing landscape that favored wrist-spinners, Johnson stood out with his unique style, often being referred to as the slowest bowler to achieve success in Test cricket. His action, likened to that of a corkscrew, occasionally raised questions about its legality. However, it was Johnson’s flight and dip that made him a menace for opposition batsmen. In the 1946-47 Ashes series against England at Sydney, he mesmerized the English batsmen by floating the ball into the breeze, stunning them with figures of six for 42 in 30.1 eight-ball overs.
Although Johnson experienced a dip in form and missed out on the 1953 tour of England, he received career-altering advice from Lindsay Hassett, his predecessor as captain of Victoria. Encouraged by Hassett, Johnson regained his form and performed admirably. In 1954-55 and 1956, he captained Australia in the Ashes series, but unfortunately, the team suffered defeats in both series. However, Johnson’s finest moment came when he led Australia on their first Test tour of the Caribbean in 1955-56. The team not only won the series but also won the hearts of the Caribbean people with their charm and sportsmanship.
Johnson’s tenure as captain wasn’t without its challenges. His own inconsistent form and perceived dictatorial approach created tensions within the dressing room. However, despite the on-field and off-field difficulties, Johnson’s legacy remained intact.
After retiring from international cricket, Johnson embarked on a new journey as an administrator. He was appointed as the secretary of the Melbourne Cricket Club, a position he held for 26 years. During his tenure, he played a significant role in the evolution of the MCG into a sporting institution that held a special place in the hearts of Australians.
Off the field, Johnson was a devoted family man. He was married to Lal, the daughter of former Australian cricketer Roy Park, for an incredible 56 years. Additionally, Johnson showcased his astute observations and progressive mindset when he wrote for a local paper during his South African tour in 1949-50. In one article, he touched on the racial question, displaying his ability to recognize the societal challenges of the time.
Ian William Geddes Johnson passed away on October 9, 1998, at the age of 80. His contributions to Australian cricket as both a player and an administrator have left an indelible mark on the sport. Despite the criticisms and challenges he faced throughout his career, Johnson’s legacy as a talented cricketer and visionary leader remains intact.
