Saturday, 16 September 2023

Frank Cameron, New Zealand cricketer, Died at 90

Francis James Cameron MBE (1 June 1932 – 2 January 2023) was a celebrated figure in New Zealand cricket, known for his remarkable career as a fast bowler on the international stage.


Early Life and Education


Frank Cameron, as he was affectionately known, was born on 1 June 1932 in Dunedin, New Zealand. His cricketing journey began at a young age, nurtured during his early education at Christian Brothers' High School, where he developed a profound passion for the sport.


Cameron's quest for knowledge paralleled his cricketing dedication. He pursued higher education at the University of Otago, where he diligently earned his Bachelor of Arts degree, successfully graduating in 1957.


International Career


Frank Cameron made his entry into Test cricket, representing New Zealand, at Durban's Kingsmead. His debut left an indelible mark as he claimed six wickets in the match, a remarkable feat for a newcomer. His stellar performance played a crucial role in restricting the opposing team to a mere 197 runs. Despite his exceptional bowling, New Zealand narrowly lost to South Africa by 30 runs.


Cameron's career reached significant milestones during his inaugural tour against South Africa in 1961–62. In this tour, he achieved three five-wicket hauls in innings, showcasing his prowess as a fast bowler. The series concluded in a draw with both teams securing two wins each.


Throughout his Test career, Cameron demonstrated extraordinary bowling skills that often troubled batsmen. He became an integral part of the New Zealand cricket squad. However, his contributions with the bat were relatively modest, resulting in a career batting average of 11.6. Nevertheless, he exhibited resilience, frequently remaining not out in two-thirds of his Test innings.


Cameron's noteworthy series performances included a historic victory against South Africa during the 1961–62 tour, marking New Zealand's maiden Test win away from home. His impressive bowling figures in various series, such as the 1962–63 series against England and the subcontinent tour, underscored his consistency and unwavering commitment to the sport. In total, Cameron secured 20 wickets during his debut Test series, concluding with an impressive bowling average of 24.65.


His international journey also encompassed a tour to England in 1965, where he participated in two of the three Tests. Despite his valuable contributions, he was not selected again for Test cricket.


Post-Playing Career


After retiring from international cricket in the 1966–67 season, Frank Cameron remained actively engaged with the sport. He served as a selector for New Zealand cricket from 1968 to 1986 and held the esteemed position of chairman of the selection panel from 1975 to 1986. His discerning eye for talent and extensive cricketing knowledge significantly contributed to New Zealand's cricketing endeavors.


Beyond cricket, Cameron enjoyed a successful career in education, ascending through the ranks to become the deputy principal of Otago Boys' High School. In 1983, he celebrated his marriage to Linley Rose Waters, enriching his personal life.


In recognition of his exceptional contributions to cricket, Frank Cameron was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 1987 New Year Honours, a well-deserved accolade that celebrated his unwavering dedication to the sport.


Frank Cameron's passing occurred on 2 January 2023 in Christchurch, marking the conclusion of an extraordinary journey in New Zealand cricket. His legacy as a cricketer, selector, and educator endures in the annals of the sport's history, forever cherished by cricket enthusiasts.

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