Frank Misson, former Australia and New South Wales fast bowler, has passed away at the age of 85. Known for his incredible fitness and dedication to the sport, Misson played five Test matches for Australia, including the iconic 1960-61 series against the West Indies and the 1961 Ashes tour of England, before his career was cut short by an Achilles injury.
Misson’s Test career saw him take 16 wickets at an average of 38.50, with a standout performance of 4 for 58 against the West Indies in Melbourne. Over a brief first-class career spanning from 1958 to 1964, he played 71 matches, mostly for New South Wales, claiming 177 wickets at an average of 31.13.
An exceptional athlete from a young age, Misson trained with legendary Australian athletics coach Percy Cerutty, who guided Herb Elliott to Olympic gold and a world record in the 1500m at the 1960 Rome Olympics. This foundation of fitness propelled Misson into cricket, where he made an immediate impact, taking six wickets on his Sheffield Shield debut for NSW at just 20 years old.
In the 1959-60 season, Misson earned selection for an Australian second XI tour to New Zealand, where he impressed by taking 17 wickets at a remarkable average of 12.47. His strong performances led to his Test debut the following summer in the second Test of the famous tied series against the West Indies in Melbourne.
Misson was also part of the 1961 Ashes tour to England, remembered for his rigorous fitness regime. Former Australian captain Ian Chappell recalled how Misson’s dedication was evident as he trained relentlessly on the ship to England, even hurdling deck chairs placed in his path by amused teammates.
Unfortunately, Misson’s Test career was abruptly halted due to an Achilles injury during the Ashes series, and he never played for Australia again. Despite his short international career, his influence on cricket fitness left a lasting legacy. His son, David Misson, would later serve as the fitness advisor for the Australian men’s team and Cricket New South Wales in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Lee Germon, CEO of Cricket NSW, paid tribute to Misson: “Frank’s career was cut short by injury, which was ironic given his focus on health, diet, and fitness in an era when sports science was not prevalent. His five Test caps are a testament to his talent and determination. There is little doubt he would have achieved more for both state and country if not for injury.”
Misson’s contributions to Australian cricket, both on and off the field, will be fondly remembered.
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