Australia’s oldest Test cricketer has died aged 95.
Born in Bathurst, Norma Johnston (nee Whiteman) played seven Tests between 1948 and 1951.
Cricket Australia chief executive Nick Hockley said: “everyone across Australian cricket will be saddened to hear of Norma’s passing”.
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“As a pioneer, Norma not only made a wonderful contribution as a player, but helped set the platform for the many thousands of women and girls now playing the game,” he said.
Johnston was a middle-order batter and medium-pace bowler. She scored 151 runs in her seven Tests at 25.16, and took 22 wickets at a ridiculous average of 17.26. To put that number in context, Shane Warne’s Test average was 25.41.
Australia’s men’s Test captain Pat Cummins was one of those to pay tribute to the pioneer.
She was first picked to play for New South Wales after a strong performance in the state’s Country Week tournament.
Following her retirement, she returned to her native Bathurst, where she spent many years working in and around the local sporting community.
“On behalf of everyone in Australian cricket, I would like to offer my sincere condolences to Norma’s family and friends at this sad time,” Hockley said.
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