Sydney, December 3 (IANS). Australian legend Don Bradman’s ‘Baggy Green’ Test cap from the 1947-48 series against India was sold for $390,000 (Rs 2.14 crore), which increased to $479,700 (Rs 2.63 crore) after auction fees.
This cap is believed to be the only known “baggy green” cap worn by Bradman during the series and has great historical significance. Bradman’s performance in the 1947–48 series was nothing short of extraordinary. In his final Test series on home soil, the Australian captain scored 715 runs in just six innings at an astronomical average of 178.75, which included three centuries and a double century.
Bonhams, the auction house that managed the auction, described the cap as a rare artefact and directly linked to Bradman’s illustrious career. According to Fox Sports report, the cap was gifted by Bradman to Indian tour manager Pankaj “Peter” Kumar Gupta.
The auction lasted only 10 minutes, but collectors bid heavily to buy this precious heritage. When the final bidding took place, the cap fetched $390,000, making it one of the most expensive cricket memorabilia ever sold.
Bradman is considered to be the greatest batsman of all time, having scored 6996 runs in 52 Test matches including 13 fifties and 29 centuries. In the longest format, the renowned batsman has the most number of double centuries (12) and joint most number of triple centuries (2).
For Bradman, the baggy green represents a career that is unmatched in the history of cricket. His all-time highest Test batting average of 99.94 has become an enduring benchmark.
Don Bradman, often known as “The Don”, has left an indelible mark on the world of cricket. His ability to dominate bowlers in an era of open pitches and limited protective gear made him a sporting icon. He died in 2001 at the age of 92.
–IANS
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