5 eventful comeback attempts in cricket

Gubby Allen

Gubby Allen remains the oldest new ball bowler in a Test

Allen, one of the most iconic names in cricket history and the most colourful characters in the sport’s firmament, made his England debut in 1930 at the age of 28, and made a significant mark when he refused to toe his team’s Bodyline tactics on the 1932-33 tour to Australia but still emerged as the most prolific bowler of that series.

Allen worked for military intelligence during the years of war and when cricket resumed after the 2nd World War, Allen was 43 – well past the prime of fast bowlers. He was one of the most senior players still up for the challenge though, and he found himself named captain of the England side to tour West Indies in 1947.

The tour was ill-fated for Allen, however, as he pulled a muscle while skipping in training on the boat out. He clashed with other senior players on the matter of staying out late at night, and missed matches through injury. Len Hutton was sent as cover in the middle of the tour.

Allen remains the oldest new ball bowler in Test history, at the age of 45, but he confessed to having regretted agreeing to lead the England side on this tour. In three Tests, he scored 94 runs and took five wickets, before being dropped for the last match.