Sir Donald Bradman, widely regarded as the greatest batsman in the history of cricket, had a remarkable career that spanned from 1927 to 1948. Born on August 27, 1908, in Cootamundra, New South Wales, Australia, Bradman made an indelible impact on the sport.


Bradman's Test career began in 1928 when he made his debut against England at Brisbane. However, it was during the infamous Ashes series in 1930 that he truly announced himself. In the second Test at Lord's, Bradman scored a magnificent 254, his first double century in Test cricket, followed by 334 at Headingley, becoming the youngest player to score a Test triple century.

Over the course of his career, Bradman played 52 Test matches, amassing 6,996 runs at an astonishing average of 99.94. This average remains unparalleled and is a testament to his extraordinary batting prowess. He scored 29 Test centuries, including 12 double centuries, and his highest score of 334 remained an Australian record for over half a century.

Bradman's most iconic series came in 1930, known as the "Bodyline" series. England employed a controversial bowling tactic called "bodyline" to combat Bradman's dominance. The tactic involved fast bowlers aiming at the batsman's body, with a packed leg-side field. Despite the challenges, Bradman still managed to score 974 runs in the series, including seven consecutive half-centuries.

During his career, Bradman achieved several significant milestones. He reached the milestone of 1,000 Test runs in just his seventh innings, the fastest at that time. He also holds the record for the most runs scored in a single Test series, amassing a staggering 974 runs in the 1930 Ashes.

Bradman's impact extended beyond Test cricket. In first-class cricket, he played for South Australia and New South Wales, amassing a remarkable career average of 95.14. He scored a record 117 centuries in first-class matches, including a career-best score of 452 not out.

In addition to his batting achievements, Bradman was known for his exceptional sportsmanship and leadership. He captained the Australian cricket team from 1936 to 1948, leading them to victory in Ashes series against England in 1936-37, 1938, 1946-47, and 1948.

Bradman retired from Test cricket in 1948, with his final innings at The Oval in London ending just four runs shy of a career average of 100. His impact on the game was immense, and his records and statistics continue to inspire awe among cricket enthusiasts.

Sir Donald Bradman was knighted in 1949 for his services to cricket. He passed away on February 25, 2001, at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy that cements his status as one of the greatest sportsmen of all time.