Cricket World Cup 1983: Australia’s Graham Wood hit by Malcolm Marshall’s bouncer

There weren’t many batsmen in world, who could face the wrath of the West Indian fast bowlers, but Australian opener Graham Wood was certainly one, who had a very good technique to counter quality pace.

Those weren’t the greatest days in Australian cricket and West Indies were on a constant rise. They looked good to clinch the third World Cup title in a row. After triumphs in 1975 and 1979, West Indies were favourites for 1983 as well.

There weren’t many batsmen in world, who could face the wrath of the West Indian fast bowlers, but Australian opener Graham Wood was certainly one, who had a very good technique to counter quality pace. So the Australians did look up to the left-handed opener while facing the bowlers from Caribbean.

In the first group game between the two sides in 1983 World Cup, Wood was forced to retire hurt after being struck by a Michael Holding bouncer at Leeds. He was hospitalised due to concussion. West Indies won the match by 101 runs.

In the above photograph, we see Wood being struck by a Malcolm Marshall bouncer in their second encounter at Lord’s. Woods was eventually dismissed for 17 by Marshall, and West Indies went on to defeat Australia.

Australia failed to qualify for the World Cup semi-final stage for the second time in succession, while West Indies entered the final as the favourites, only to be defeated by an inspired Indian side.

About the Author