The former fast bowler Merv Hughes has been inducted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame.
Australian cricketer Merv Hughes has a drink at the first Cricket Max game at Cornwall Park, Auckland, New Zealand 5th February 1996. Photo: Andrew Cornaga / Photosport
Hughes, renowned for his trademark handlebar moustache as well as his aggressive bowling style, played 53 tests and 33 one day internationals between 1985 and 1994 taking 212 test wickets.
An integral part of Australian cricket's return to the top of the Test Cricket rankings, Hughes' career spanned 53 Tests and 33 ODIs for Australia from 1985-94, taking 212 Test wickets at an average of 28.38.
His career-best figures of 8-87 against the West Indies at the WACA in 1988 included the final wicket of a hat-trick spread across three separate overs, two innings and two different days.
A Wisden Cricketer of the Year 1994, Hughes also represented Victoria, Essex, and the ACT over a First-Class career spanning 14 seasons.
In 2005, Hughes became a selector for the Australian cricket team, a role he held until 2010.
While Hughes' statistics alone speak to a great career, it is difficult to view his impact and influence on the game on statistics alone. Standing at 6'4" in the old-scale, Hughes was an Australian cricket icon.
His bristling handlebar moustache, menacing run-up and displays of affection for his teammates made him a favourite for a generation of cricket fans.
The affection for Hughes was most fondly manifested when fielding at fine-leg in front of the fans in the then Bay 13 at the MCG, who would imitate his warm-up stretches en-masse.
-RNZ
