Australian fast bowler Alan “Froggy” Thomson, well known for taking the first-ever wicket in One Day International cricket, has died at the age of 76.
The Victorian sportsman, whose cricketing career ended with a total of 184 first-class wickets in 44 matches, passed away on Monday, October 31.
As reported by news.com.au, Thomson’s younger brother confirmed he had died following a recent hip replacement surgery.
“It is with a heavy heart I announce the death of my only older brother and past Australian Test Cricketer Alan ‘Froggy’ Thomson,” he said.
“Being in hospital after a fall just days ago he was being operated on for a hip replacement but it was just too much for his frail body and he passed away a bit over an hour ago.
“He leaves a son Chris and daughter Sally and a couple of grandkids from each. Further details will be posted as it‘s been handled by the coroner.
“I am proud to have been his brother and see his many achievements first hand. Plenty of memories. Love you mate.”
Desperately sad news.
Alan “Froggy” Thomson has passed away. These sorrowful words from his brother.@jimmaxcricket @AlisterNicho @bowlologist @johnhastings194 @nassercricket @gideon_haigh @MaccaHeraldSun @glassockclassic @DanEddyBooks35 @Crackers134 @MrsAggers @Beva3AW pic.twitter.com/9Wjz8liwP6— Tony TC ☕???????????????? (@TonyC1963) October 31, 2022
Thomson’s unique method of bowling off the wrong foot, saw him claim 22 wickets for Victoria over his first three matches in 1969.
The cricketing great bowled the first ball of the Ashes series in Brisbane against the touring English, claiming 9 wickets against the British team and a total of 31 in the opening four first-class matches of the 1970-71 Ashes series.
Australian cricket fans took to social media to mourn Thomson and remember his incredible cricket achievements.
Some vision of Froggy Thomson bowling in the first-ever ODI 1970-71 at the MCG after the Third Test had been washed out without a ball having been bowled. Check from around 1m 45sec mark. https://t.co/e8I1DYtTHx https://t.co/d6be9QF4mC pic.twitter.com/OR4J3I91ZV
— Tony TC ☕???????????????? (@TonyC1963) October 31, 2022
Vale Alan ‘Froggy’ Thomson.
Was the fastest to 100 wickets for Victoria and known as the first wicket-taker in a One Day International (caught by Bill Lawry), Thomson is also a Hall of Fame inductee at @fitzdonc and part of our Sheffield Shield-winning team of 1969-70. pic.twitter.com/echjBTvhvc
— Victorian Cricket Team (@VicStateCricket) November 1, 2022
Very sad news. Just recently read the book “Bob’s Boys” which Thomson wrote the foreword for. A great Victorian. pic.twitter.com/rwJ3EilZ0f
— Luke Reynolds (@Crackers134) October 31, 2022
RIP Froggy a unique bowler that is for sure. Condolences to his family and friends.
— Kevin Hillier (@KevinHillier) November 1, 2022
After finishing his cricket career, Thomson worked as a primary school teacher and as a field umpire in the Victorian Football League.