A cap worn by Australia’s most distinguished batsman Don Bradman will be auctioned in Sydney on Tuesday. It is expected to fetch as much as USD 260,000 (approximately INR 2.2 crore). Bradman donned the woollen cap during India’s 1947-48 tour of Australia, which also marked the visitor’s first Test matches overseas after gaining independence. Auction house Bonhams said it was “the only known baggy green” worn by Bradman during one of his most prolific series.
An average of 100!
Bonhams expect the cap to fetch between USD 195,000 and USD 260,000 despite considerable fading, signs of insect damage and a torn peak. Bradman scored 715 runs in six innings against the visitors at an average of 178.75, with three centuries and a double-hundred. Australia’s Test cricketers are awarded the dark green caps, which are revered by players and fans. The Green baggy cap is the symbol for seniority. Bradman has played 80 innings with 6996 runs, he needed just four in his last Test innings, at The Oval in 1948, to ensure an average of 100 - but was out second ball for 0, a rare moment of human failing that only added to his everlasting appeal.
Also Read: IND Vs AUS: KL Rahul’s New Role Confirmed As Rohit And Gill Prepare To Return | Take A Look
He retired with an all-time high Test batting average of 99.94, and has been described as the greatest to “have ever graced the gentleman’s game”. A different “baggy green” worn by Bradman during his Test debut in 1928 fetched USD 290,000 in 2020 — a then-record for one of the cricket legend’s caps.
