Victory in last ball for England over South Africa

By A. C. de Silva

CRICKET: England beat South Africa by two wickets off the final ball with a leg bye in the Durban Test in the 1948 series. In the first innings, South Africa could score only 161 in the face of some accurate bowling by Alec Bedser (4 for 39) and Cliff Gladwin (3 for 21).

The bowlers were aided by some outstanding fielding. With Len Hutton making a crisp 83 and Dennis Compton contributing 72, England gained a lead of 92 runs. When they made 253 in their first innings: "Tuffy" Mann (6 for 59) and Athol Rowan (4 for 108) were South Africa's leading bowlers.

In the second innings, South Africa were all our for 219. Wade made 63, Douglas Wright took 4 for 72.

England needed 128 runs for a win in 135 minutes. Five minutes were lost due to injury to Dudley Nourse and a sharp shower reduced paly by a further 12 minutes. England went for runs from the first ball. The 8th wicket fell at 116, still 12 runs needed and 10 minutes left. 19 year-old speedster Cuan McCarthy who claimed 6 wickets in his debut, seemed to be on the kill. The light further deteriorated. It was so dark, either side could have appealed, but neither did. Gladwin offered a catch off the first ball he received, but was dropped. The fielder couldn't sight the ball. With three balls remaining, England needed two runs to win with two wicket in hand. Bedser levelled the score with two balls left: Gladwin had a mighty swipe but missed the seventh ball. Now the important final delivery. Bedser and Gladwin, perhaps, decided to run come what may. Gladwin again failed to connect, the ball hit his thigh and the batsman galloped to glory.

England won off the final ball with a leg bye!

Both Bedser and Gladwin executed a one-step dance on the field to celebrated the moment.

South Africa 1st innings: 161 Alec Bedser 4 for 39, Cliff Gladwin 3 for 21

England 1st innings: 253 (Len Hutton 83, Dennis Compton 72, "Tuffy" Mann 6 for 59, Athol Rowan 4 for 108)

South Africa 2nd innings: 219 (Wade 63, Douglas Wright 4 for 72)

England 2nd innings: 128 for 8 wkts (won in last ball of match)