This Friday December 7 represents the 75th anniversary of England’s 10 wicket victory against Australia in the first Test at Sydney in 1932 - the beginning of the legendary Bodyline series of 1932-33.
England’s win was due to the brilliant bowling of Nottinghamshire’s Harold Larwood who captured 10 wickets in the match – with bowling figures of 5-96 in the first innings and 5-28 in the second. Opening the bowling in harness with Larwood was his Nottinghamshire teammate Bill Voce, who himself took six wickets.
England went on to win the series by four matches to one. It remains the most controversial series in cricket’s history, with England captain Douglas Jardine's decision to combat the brilliance of Don Bradman with 'leg theory' causing a major diplomatic incident.
Below is a photograph of Harold Larwood meeting Captain O'Sullevan on the Orient liner Orontes before it left Tilbury.
Below is a cutting from the Daily Mail in which Harold Larwood is described as England's hero.
A photograph of a reception held for Bill Voce and HaroldLarwood on their return in 1933.
