Greg Chappell: Profile of Australia’s Stylish Captain and Batter

Greg Chappell was among the finest Australian batters of his generation. Born in Adelaide in 1948, he came from a prominent cricketing family; his brothers Ian and Trevor also played for Australia.

Early life and rise

Chappell played for South Australia before making his Test debut in 1970 against England at Perth. He scored a century on debut, which marked him out as a major talent, and he soon became an important figure in the Australian middle order.

Playing style

Chappell was admired for his classical technique and his elegant strokeplay, especially his on-drive. He combined composure with a strong sense of timing and was a fine slip fielder. He also bowled useful medium pace, which added balance to the Australian side.

Career highlights

He played 87 Tests and scored 7,110 runs with 24 centuries at an average of about 54 (as of the end of 2024). He captained Australia in the 1970s and early 1980s, including during the period when many leading Australians signed for World Series Cricket. He also played county cricket for Somerset and represented Queensland late in his career.

His career also included a controversial moment in 1981, when, in a one-day international against New Zealand at Melbourne, he instructed his brother Trevor to bowl the last ball underarm to prevent a six. The episode drew widespread criticism and led to the practice being banned.

Legacy

Chappell retired from international cricket in 1984. He later became a coach and selector, and served as India’s head coach from 2005 to 2007, a spell that drew mixed reactions. He is remembered chiefly as an outstanding batter and as a leading figure of Australian cricket in the 1970s.

Frequently asked questions

How many Test runs did Greg Chappell score?

He scored 7,110 runs in 87 Tests, as of the end of 2024.

Which brothers of Greg Chappell played Tests?

Ian and Trevor Chappell both played for Australia.

What was the underarm incident?

In a 1981 one-day match against New Zealand, Chappell told Trevor to bowl the last ball underarm.