Mark Francis Cleary, hailing from Australia, is a former cricketer known for his sharp pace and aggressive all-round skills. Born on March 15, 1977, Cleary made his mark in the cricketing world with his impressive performances at both domestic and international levels.
Cleary’s cricketing journey began in South Australia, where he first showcased his talents and quickly caught the attention of selectors. His impressive performances in his second first-class season earned him a selection in the Australia A squad. The young fast bowler was highly regarded for his ability to generate pace and trouble the batsmen with his aggressive style of play.
In the domestic circuit, Cleary represented South Australia before making a transition to Victoria ahead of the 2010-11 season. This move came after a season in which he had limited opportunities, playing only three Sheffield Shield games and six Twenty20 matches for the Redbacks. Despite the limited game time, Cleary always displayed his dedication and determination to succeed.
Although Cleary experienced some setbacks in his career, particularly due to injuries, he remained resilient. A back injury hampered his performances in the 2004-05 season, resulting in a decline in his wicket tally. However, Cleary refused to let adversity define him and worked hard to regain his form.
During his time in South Australia, Cleary became known for his consistent performances and ability to contribute with both bat and ball. In the 2003-04 season, he grabbed the spotlight by taking an impressive 30 wickets, establishing himself as a key player in the state team. His outstanding performances led to his selection in two games against Zimbabwe.
Cleary’s time at South Australia was not without its challenges. In the following years, he faced difficulties and sought a transfer to Victoria. Unfortunately, his efforts to secure a move via the state transfer pool were unsuccessful. Despite the setbacks, Cleary remained focused on his game and continued to work on improving his skills.
One of Cleary’s most memorable moments came during the 2005-06 season when he starred in the one-day arena. He played a crucial role in South Australia’s journey to the final, finishing as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with an impressive haul of 16 scalps. Additionally, he showcased his batting prowess by scoring a breathtaking century against Tasmania, smashing 109 runs off just 104 deliveries.
Cleary’s passion for cricket took him beyond Australian shores as well. In 2003, he attended the prestigious Cricket Academy, further honing his skills. He also had the opportunity to showcase his talents in England, spending a winter season at Leicestershire. During his time there, he was part of the Twenty20-winning team, delivering an exceptional performance in the final at Edgbaston.
Although Cleary’s international career might not have reached the heights he had aspired to, his contributions to Australian domestic cricket and his skill as a fast bowler should not be overlooked. His dedication, resilience, and all-round skills made him a valuable asset to any team he represented.
After retiring from professional cricket, Cleary has remained involved in the sport in various capacities, including coaching and commentary. His knowledge and experience continue to enrich the cricketing world, inspiring the next generation of players.