04/05/2026
An important and lasting legacy on the national stage and a treasured and lasting part of our clubs ongoing history.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18oaLnAMkh/
Tony Mann Turned A Nightwatchman Role Into Cricket History
His Brilliant Century Helped Australia Pull Off A Famous Chase 🇦🇺
During the second Test against India at the WACA in 1977-78, Australian leg-spinner Tony Mann produced one of the most remarkable innings ever played by a nightwatchman.
Australia were chasing a daunting target of 339 on a wearing pitch against India’s world-class spin attack. Mann was sent in late on day four simply to protect the specialist batters, but what followed became part of Test cricket folklore.
Showing fearless intent and superb footwork against Bishan Bedi and Bhagwat Chandrasekhar, Mann attacked the spinners with confidence and composure. He scored a magnificent 105 from 165 balls, including 10 boundaries, becoming only the second nightwatchman in Test history to score a Test century.
His extraordinary innings completely changed the course of the match and helped Australia complete the difficult chase with two wickets in hand.
Tony Mann walked in as a nightwatchman — and walked out with one of the most iconic innings in Australian Test history. 💛
