Merv Hughes, the former Australian fast bowler known for his fierce sledging, rang the bell at Lord’s on Friday ahead of the second Ashes Test, stirring memories of his feisty encounters on the same ground three decades ago. The sight of the 61-year-old, his trademark moustache now grey, provided inspiration for an Australia side missing injured bowler Josh Hazlewood.
It was during the 1993 Ashes Test at Lord’s that Australia lost Craig McDermott to a twisted bowel, forcing them to play with a depleted attack. Hughes led the bowling and, after Australia posted 632 for four declared, they won by an innings and 62 runs. The performance echoed the current situation as Australia battle without a key seamer.
Hughes also recalled a legendary exchange with England’s Robin Smith in 1989. After Hughes sledged Smith, the Englishman hit the next ball for four and retorted, “I can’t f***ing bat, and you can’t f***ing bowl.” On Friday, Hughes addressed the Lord’s pavilion with considerably more decorum.
Elsewhere at Lord’s, chef Tommy Banks, of Michelin-starred Black Swan and Roots, has been running the Edrich Stand restaurant all week. Banks, a cricket fan, noted the rollercoaster nature of the Test and revealed a connection with England batter Harry Brook. “I know Harry Brook very well,” he said. “He ate in our restaurant early last summer and I texted him saying since then he averages about 120.” Brook’s first-class average has since dropped to 90.86.
During lunch, the British army band Tidworth played the Dambusters theme in front of the Pavilion, an ironic reminder of England’s defence being breached by Australia’s bowling attack.
