Threw & through

Trevor Chesterfield in the Island recalls a deeply rancorous incident on his first tour of Australia in 1963-64 - the Ian Meckiff no-balling episode in the first Test of the series.

Both teams went into that Gabba Test with some apprehension over Meckiff’s selection. However, judgment on his action was delayed until well into the second day after Australia, batting first, scored 435.

Umpire Egar was in little doubt after passing the first delivery without comment.

"No b-a-l-l!" came his call from square leg. The crowd went numb and a sick silence swept over them. Egar stood motionless. The Australian fielders, uncertain, looked at each other, unable to believe what was taking place.