Peter Gordon Fulton, also known as “Two-Metre Peter,” is a prominent cricket player from New Zealand. Standing tall and renowned for his top-order batting skills, Fulton has made a significant impact on the cricketing world.
Fulton first made waves in first-class cricket during the 2002-2003 season when he achieved an extraordinary feat. In a match against Auckland, he extended his maiden century to an incredible 301 not out, showcasing his exceptional talent and immense potential. This outstanding performance quickly earned him recognition and opened doors for his international career.
In 2004, Fulton made his One Day International (ODI) debut for New Zealand against Bangladesh. Shortly after, he made his Test debut early in 2006, solidifying his position as a key player in the national team. However, it was during his second stint in international cricket that Fulton truly left a lasting impression.
After a three-year hiatus from the Test side, Fulton made a remarkable comeback in 2013. Selected to open the innings in the three-Test home series against England, he displayed his prowess by scoring centuries in both innings of the crucial third Test in Auckland. This extraordinary performance shattered his previous highest score of 75 in 19 Test innings, proving that he was capable of reaching his early potential. The series against England cemented Fulton’s position as a formidable Test player and showcased his ability to perform under pressure.
Fulton’s cricketing journey stems from his time playing club cricket in England. Hailing from Canterbury Country, an area steeped in cricketing history, Fulton became the first international player to emerge from the region. When he initially broke into the New Zealand setup during the 2004-2005 season, he was considered a promising future star. Notably, his outstanding performances in the ODI series at home against Sri Lanka in 2005-2006, including a century, propelled him into the Test team.
Despite facing challenges as an opener against South Africa early in 2006, Fulton’s determination only grew stronger. In the 2007 World Cup, he seized the opportunity to showcase his skills when Lou Vincent returned home. Fulton emerged as his team’s top scorer on multiple occasions, including a commendable innings of 62 against Australia. Finishing the tournament with an impressive total of 297 runs at an average of 37.12, Fulton proved his mettle on the international stage.
Injuries and inconsistent form temporarily halted Fulton’s progress, leading to his exclusion from the national side. However, his indomitable spirit and talent resurfaced in 2013, solidifying his place as one of New Zealand’s finest cricketers.
Overall, Peter Gordon Fulton’s exceptional performances, remarkable comebacks, and unwavering determination have made him a respected figure in New Zealand cricket. His ability to rise to the occasion and deliver outstanding innings has left an indelible mark on the sport and earned him a well-deserved place among the nation’s cricketing legends.