Rhodesian first-class cricket in 1948/49

Captain: Sid Martin

F G Mann's M.C.C. touring team played the usual two matches in Rhodesia, which were disrupted by the usual rain at that time of year, and again this meant that Rhodesia played no other first-class cricket. The disruptions of the M.C.C. matches strengthened the complaints of Rhodesia to the South African authorities about being given matches at this time of year, and this at last brought results, with the Australians in 1949/50 being scheduled to visit Rhodesia at the start of their tour.

Rhodesia now had a team of some experience, and on a pitch in the first match dampened by rain M.C.C. were given considerable concern by the ferocious pace bowling of 38-year-old Bob Newson, who took five wickets for five runs in four overs at one stage. M.C.C.'s 193 was their lowest total of the tour. However, only rain prevented them from reaching a victory target of 148. In the second match Martin bowled well and held together Rhodesia's disastrous first innings, while rain helped them save the match after following on.

At Raylton, Bulawayo; 29, 31 January, 1 February. RHODESIA 174 (A P Singleton 38; J A Young 4/31, R O Jenkins 4/78) and 166 (S H Martin 32, K P Curran 36; J A Young 4/29, D C S Compton 4/51). M.C.C. 193 (C H Palmer 33, D C S Compton 60, C Gladwin 44; E S Newson 5/54, A P Singleton 3/29) and 117/2 (C H Palmer 32*). Match drawn.

At Salisbury Sports Club; 4, 5, 7 February. M.C.C. 228 (L Hutton 79, D C S Compton 34, F G Mann 32; E S Newson 3/108, S H Martin 6/49). RHODESIA 61 (S H Martin 27*; A V Bedser 6/17, C Gladwin 4/37) and 191/5 (K P Curran 37, C J Pretorius 75). Match drawn.

It is intended in the future to produce full scorecards, and also much more information about all cricket in Rhodesia during this season. At present, the next entry in this section is for 1949/50