Australia

Steve Rixon

Born: February 25, 1954, Albury, New South Wales

Steve Rixon bio

Stephen John Rixon, born on December 25, 1954, is an Australian cricket player and coach who has made significant contributions to the sport both on and off the field. Known for his sound wicketkeeping skills and reliable batting, Rixon has left an indelible mark on Australian cricket.

Rixon’s journey in professional cricket began when he joined the New South Wales (NSW) team in the late 1970s, following the retirement of Brian Taber. His natural talent and dedication soon caught the attention of national selectors, leading to his debut for Australia against India and the West Indies in the 1977-78 season. This opportunity came about due to the absence of renowned wicketkeepers Rodney Marsh and Richie Robinson, who had joined World Series Cricket.

Although Rixon initially served as a backup to Marsh during the 1981 Ashes tour, he solidified his place in the national team when Marsh retired and Wayne Phillips suffered an injury in the 1984-85 season. Rixon’s exemplary on-field performances showcased his skill as a wicketkeeper and provided stability to Australia’s lower-order batting.

Regrettably, Rixon’s international career met an untimely end when he decided to join a rebel tour of South Africa in 1985-86. This move resulted in his exclusion from the Australian squad and marked the conclusion of his Test career. Nevertheless, Rixon’s contributions to the sport cannot be undermined, and at the time of his retirement in 1988, he had played more games for NSW than any other player.

Following his retirement as a player, Rixon seamlessly transitioned into coaching, taking charge of the New South Wales team in the 1989-90 season. Under his leadership, the Blues experienced great success as they reached the Sheffield Shield final in each of his first five seasons, triumphing on three occasions. Additionally, they achieved the coveted Shield/one-day cup double twice, highlighting Rixon’s ability to nurture and develop talent.

In 1996, Rixon took on the role of coach for the New Zealand cricket team. His tenure lasted until the end of the England tour in 1999, during which he made significant strides in enhancing the team’s performance. After his time with the New Zealand team, Rixon returned to Sydney to focus on his business interests.

However, Rixon’s passion for coaching brought him back to cricket, and in the 2000-01 season, he resumed his role as the coach of New South Wales. His tenure with the team showcased his ability to strategize and guide players to success. Subsequently, he ventured to England and took charge of Surrey in 2003, though his time there was marred by criticism of English cricket, leading to his departure after two years.

Due to his expertise and reputation, Rixon was frequently linked to international coaching positions. He also joined the Indian Cricket League and assumed the coaching role for the Hyderabad Heroes team. His contribution to the team left an indomitable impact before the league disbanded.

In 2008, Rixon’s vast experience and knowledge of the game were acknowledged when he was included in the Cricket Australia Hall of Fame. His statistical achievements, such as his significant number of dismissals as a wicketkeeper and his successful coaching career, cement his place as one of Australia’s most revered cricketers.

Stephen John Rixon’s dedication, skill, and success both as a player and a coach have left an enduring legacy in Australian cricket. His strategic insights, leadership abilities, and commitment to the sport continue to inspire and shape the future of the game.

Steve Rixon career stats

Batting stats

Batting Matches Innings Nos Runs High score Ave BF SR 100s 50s 4s 6s Ct St
Tests 13 24 3 394 54 18.76 - - 0 2 33 0 42 5
T20Is - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
ODIs 6 6 3 40 20* 13.33 98 40.81 0 0 1 0 9 2
FC 151 221 35 4303 128 23.13 - - 6 14 - - 395 65
List A 53 42 13 434 52 14.96 - - 0 1 - - 64 12
T20s - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Bowling stats

Bowling Matches Innings Balls Runs Wkts BBI BBM Ave Econ SR 4w 5w 10w
Tests 13 - - - - - - - - - - - -
T20Is - - - - - - - - - - - - -
ODIs 6 - - - - - - - - - - - -
FC 151 - 18 20 0 - - - 6.66 - 0 0 0
List A 53 - 0 0 0 - - - - - 0 0 0
T20s - - - - - - - - - - - - -

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