Cirrus@Austlit

'Billy Murdoch was a colossus of Australian cricket in the 1880s, an inspirational captain who led Australia to its first Test victory on English soil in 1882, giving rise to the Ashes symbolism. He batted with style and substance, scoring the first triple century in Australia and the first Test double century — Murdoch was Australia’s answer to England’s W.G. Grace.

'Though affable, Murdoch was a tough-minded leader, who did not shirk numerous controversies that swirled around the Australians in the 1880s, many relating to gate money. He was captain of an Australian team which refused to play in the Second Test of the 1884–85 series.

'Murdoch had a tumultuous life. Abandoned by his father, bankrupt in his early 20s, he secretly married the daughter of Victoria’s wealthiest gold miner without his permission. Opting to live in England from 1890, the Murdochs aspired to make it in Edwardian society, often living beyond their means. Murdoch played one Test for England in South Africa, captained Sussex and then played for Grace’s London County.

'Murdoch collapsed and died while watching a Test at the MCG in 1911. His body was embalmed and shipped back to England for burial.

'This biography gives Murdoch his long overdue recognition as one of the great figures of Australian cricket.' (Publication summary)

'This biography tells the compelling story of an athlete who achieved remarkable success in two sports. During a long career as a sprinter, Marsh became known as the fastest man in Australia. Taking up cricket late in life, he rose to the New South Wales squad within a few weeks and was soon regarded as the most threatening and inventive bowler of his generation.'

'An illiterate boy, born in poverty, Marsh was a member of a people that was subjected to the harshest discrimination in its own homeland. Yet for a brief time, he attained astonishing fame and popularity as a cricketer and a professional athlete. He seemed to embody the hope that any obstacle could be overcome by talent, if that talent shone brightly enough. Of course, most of us want to believe this, which is why the cruel end to Marsh's story is so engaging and tragic.' (Source: publishers website)