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Wisden Cricketer of the Year 1991 Mike Atherton was one of the most technically correct batsmen of his time. When needed he could set his mind in and slog happily for long hours with unmitigated concentration; during such occasions his bat appeared to acquire an armour like broadness to shield the wickets from any delivery. Mike Atherton played the quick bowlers as if he was waging a battle, usually a lone one, against them. He would defend, hook and pull and duck. These battles of his were as thrilling to watch as any aggressive batting. One of the classic instances of Mike Atherton's great temperament as an opener came to evidence in the match England played against South Africa at Johannesburg in 1995-96 series. Southern African pace attack, which comprised the formidable duo - Allan Donaldand Shaun Pollock, had almost ripped apart the paper-thin English batting lineup. England was staring at an inevitable defeat. Mike Atherton, like a stubborn kid, refused to leave the crease, inspite of being threatened and cajoled by South African bowlers. Mike Atherton scored 185 not out in 643 minutes and led the match to end in a draw. Back in England there were demands that Mike Atherton should be knighted. It must have been tough being handed over the captaincy of the under performing England team at 25. But being the kind of person he was, Mike Atherton never complained. He shouldered the team to reach a certain level of respectability and left in due time without much hoopla. Cricketscorelive.com gives information on Mike Atherton and other Great Cricket Players. |
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