Sir Donald

Sir Donald Bradman, born on August 27, 1908, in Cootamundra, New South Wales, Australia, is universally recognized as the greatest batsman in the history of cricket. Bradman started his professional cricket career playing for New South Wales in 1927 before moving to South Australia in 1935. His phenomenal batting average of 99.94 in Test cricket is often cited as the greatest achievement by any sportsman in any major sport.

Known for his unmatched batting technique, concentration, and hunger for runs, Bradman has won numerous individual awards and holds several records. Off the field, Bradman also served as an administrator, selector, and writer, contributing significantly to cricket's growth and global popularity.

Despite his retirement in 1948, Bradman's influence on the sport remains timeless, inspiring generations of cricketers worldwide.

New South Wales

• Youth and Early Career: Bradman was born and raised in New South Wales. He made his first-class debut for New South Wales in 1927.

South Australia

• Peak Career: Bradman moved to South Australia in 1935. His performances during this period solidified his status as the world's premier batsman, setting numerous records that still stand today.

Retirement and post-retirement career

• Bradman retired from professional cricket in 1948 but continued to contribute to the sport as an administrator, selector, and writer. He was knighted for his services to cricket in 1949.

Australian National Team

• Debut: Made his debut for Australia in 1928.

Achievements:

• Bradman is Australia's highest run-scorer in Test cricket.
• He has the highest average in Test cricket with 99.94 runs.

• Position: Predominantly a batsman.
• Skills: Known for his impeccable technique, concentration, and ability to score runs consistently. Bradman's batting style and technique have been studied and admired by cricketers and enthusiasts worldwide.

• Family: Bradman was married to Jessie Menzies from 1932 until his death in 2001. They had two children.
• Post-retirement: After retiring from cricket, Bradman served as an administrator, selector, and writer. He was also involved in various charitable activities, particularly focused on youth cricket development.

• Sir Donald Bradman's legacy transcends cricket. His extraordinary talent, coupled with his sportsmanship and integrity, make him an enduring symbol of excellence in sport. His impact on cricket is immeasurable and continues to inspire generations of cricketers around the world.

Most Runs in a Series:

• 974 runs in the 1930 Ashes series

Highest Batting Average in Test Cricket:

• Average of 99.94 runs

Most Double Centuries in Test Cricket:

• 12 double centuries

Fastest to Reach 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000, and 7000 Runs in Test Cricket:

• Bradman holds the record for being the fastest to reach each of these milestones.

Books

• Perry, R. (2000) Bradman's Best: Sir Donald Bradman's Selection of the Best Team in Cricket History. Sydney: Random House Australia.
• Page, M. (2001) Bradman: The Illustrated Biography. Melbourne: Macmillan Australia.

Websites

• Cricinfo: Detailed information about Sir Donald Bradman’s career and statistics. Available at: https://www.espncricinfo.com
• Cricket Australia: Highlights of Bradman’s career at the Australian national team. Available at: https://www.cricket.com.au

Articles

• The Guardian: Sir Donald Bradman’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/donald-bradman

Interviews and Documentaries

• Bradman (1994): Directed by Christopher Hilton. This documentary provides a detailed look at Bradman’s life and career, featuring interviews with his contemporaries and experts on the game.