Brian Taber

Brian Taber, who hailed from Wagga Wagga, was a small, natural, unfussy keeper but limited as a batsman: his first-class average was only 18. But he was New South Wales' finest wicketkeeper - he eased into their official team of the millennium, and he also played 16 Tests for Australia in the late 1960s. His Test debut was dramatic - he held seven catches, as well as a stumping, against South Africa at Johannesburg. He toured England in 1968 as understudy to Barry Jarman, but on subsequent trips to India and South Africa was first-choice keeper. His last Tests were in the 4-0 thrashing by South Africa in 1969-70, after which he was replaced by Rodney Marsh. After retiring he became a coach, and then NSW's chairman of selectors.
Martin Williamson (April 2004)