Mark Russell - test match
Western Suburbs District Cricket Club Sydney | July 13, 2024
Mark Russell has a life time association with the Western Suburbs District Cricket Club.
From a very young age, he sat on the hill at Pratten Park watching Bob Simpson, Gary Gilmour, and other club legends win the 1971–72 and 1972–73 first grade premierships.
He was as proud as punch to be graded in Western Suburbs and rose through the ranks from fifth grade to second grade.
In 252 games for his beloved Magpies Mark scored 4,065 runs including one century and 18 half centuries. As a wicket keeper he took 279 dismissals including 241 catches and 38 stumpings
Mark was the wicket keeper in the Western suburbs fifth grade premiership winning team in 1993–94.
A competitor, Mark is what people today refer to as "old school," and he embraces it openly with enthusiasm. He’s affectionately known as 'Test Match' because every game he played with Western Suburbs was his Test Match.
Mark Russell has twice won the coveted Dave Brooks Award for Clubman of the Year, in 1994 and 2005–06. He followed in his mum and dad's footsteps as Mavis and Bill Russell together won the award in 1986.
Mark was awarded Life Membership of Western Suburbs District Cricket Club in 1998, just one year after his mum Mavis was honoured with Life Membership of the club.
The Western Suburbs 'fielder of the year' award is known as the Bill Russell fielding award, after Mavis and Mark Russell donated the award in memory of Bill Russell after his passing on 26 October 1992.
Let’s find out more about Mark’s journey in the game.
Chemist Warehouse Ashfield is a proud sponsor of Western Suburbs District Cricket Club
What year you were born?
August 1962
Can you remember you first game of cricket?
I was 9 playing in the Under 12’s for Western Suburbs Australian Rules Football Club based in Croydon Park. I was selected as an opening batsman but cannot remember the match or how I went.
Tell us briefly about your cricketing journey?
Started as a 9 year old with Western Suburbs Australian Rules Football Club and played all my junior cricket with this Club in the Under 16’s. In my last season of juniors as a 15-year-old I played C Grade in the afternoon for the same after playing juniors in the morning.
The next season 1978/79 I tried out for Grade Cricket with Wests and played there until I retired in 1999/2000.
Privileged to play over 250 games for this great Club and to a Premiership Player and Life Member of this mighty club are just cherries on top
In which grade and at what age did you make your debut in grade cricket?
I got graded at the age of 16 with the Wests C Grade Shires team as Wests did not have a Fifth Grade team. I think the first game of the season was against Lane Cove. Back in those days at the end of the season those teams that did not make finals played redraw games. I finally got a chance to play Fourth Grade at Old Kings Oval against Parramatta. I opened the batting and got 16 – four boundaries ??
What was the highest grade you played, and can you remember how you performed in your first game in that grade?
The highest grade I ever played was Second Grade. Was against Petersham at Petersham Oval - did not get many with the bat – got out to a great catch at backward square leg off a full blooded sweep
If you can share with our audience, how would you describe yourself as a cricketer?
Came into Grade cricket as a wicket keeper and opening batsman. Had scored heavily in my last season in the U16 and topped the averages and aggregate in the C Grade Park side. Had reasonable success in early years as a bat but as the years went on certainly was more of a keeper. Played the game really hard – took no prisoners. If it was too hot in the kitchen and you couldn’t cope not my fault. Had some great engagements with fellow hard noses over my career – enjoyed every minute of those interactions
What were your strengths as a player?
Certainly fitness was not a strength but I would consider mental toughness and desire to win to be my strengths. I hated to lose and never gave an inch nor asked for one. Was the reason I got the nickname Test Match or Testy
Who was the best spinner you had the good fortune to keep to?
Two come to mind – Mark Tudehope and Steve Jansz. Tudey for his guile, variation, length and control. Janszy for the ability to bowl wrong un and after wrong un and land it on a dime. Could never pick Janszy but his control was so good that you knew what it was from where it pitched and the fact he bowled about 99% wrong uns. Hahahahaha
Who was the best fast bowler you kept to?
Chris Killen – scary quick and coming out of the trees at Trumper extremely difficult to keep to.
Geoff Wirth certainly deserves a mention here too – his control of length and line and ability to move the ball both ways was a joy to watch.
Also had the privilege to keep to the great AK Davidson when we opened the re-laid square at Pratten. It was a PG game against Sutherland and AK opened the celebrations bowling an over at our PG Captain Peter Holland. AK fully attired in a suit and dress shoes and off a shortened run still had the ability to move the ball incredibly late – one can only imagine what he was like in his heyday.
Alan Davidson
Was there anyone bowler who you really enjoyed keeping to?
As mentioned earlier the three bowlers I really enjoyed keeping to was Mark Tudehope, Steve Jansz and Geoff Wirth.
Can you recall a catch or stumping that still fills you with pride and puts a smile on your face?
There’s one catch and one stumping that really stand out. The catch was at Syd Uni No 2 in a Third Grade game I think. For once the footwork was in play – Alex Judge was the bowler the batter got a big nick and I took the catch on the right hip of first slip – just went for it.
The stumping was off Peter Jackson against Gordon at Beauchamp Oval. Jacko pushed one down the legside but got extra swing (did not want to say drift Jacko) took the ball out near the return crease and effected the stumping
What was your highest score in senior cricket?
Highest grade score was 112 against Fairfield-Liverpool at Punchbowl oval in 1994/95. Was memorable as I shared a 6th wicket partnership of over 160 with Michael Clarke which was a record that lasted for nearly two decades
What were your best bowling figures in senior cricket?
Being a keeper I did not bowl too much but as I captain I gave myself the occasional over or two. Two unfortunate batsmen were on my wicket list in grade cricket.
The first was at Punchbowl Oval where some fool charged me and took an almighty swing and missed by a mile – the ball did not.
The second was an LBW at St Pauls Oval against Sydney Uni – was not out. I did not even appeal. I think it was a get square by the ump for what I thought was a plumb LBW not given a couple of overs before
Who were the best three fast bowlers you have played against?
Best quick I played against was definitely Dave Gilbert in a PG’s game when he was playing for Sydney at Pratten Park on the ridge. Lizard didn’t like me hitting him over his head for a boundary. Let’s just say that the next few overs were decidedly quick and not full of a length.
Had the privilege of watching Gus Gilmour in full swing in his playing days with Wests. Incredible ability with the ball and could destroy any batting line up on any given day
David Gilbert
Who were the best three spinners you have played against?
Didn’t real pay any attention to opposition players. Best spinner I’ve played against was Greg Matthews in a PG game. Great variety, great flight and never short of a chat – loved the competitive nature.
I’ve been fortunate enough to watch Tom Shiner bowl – easily the best spinner not to play Shield Cricket – had some amazing deliveries.
Best spinner I’ve played with is Mark Tudehope – was a delight to keep to Tudey and his record at Wests speaks for itself.
Who were the best 3 batters you’ve played against?
I like seeing the end to opposing batsman so don’t pay much attention to them to be honest. Was lucky enough to captain Michael Clarke in his first year of Grade Cricket. Michael, even then as a 14 year old, had amazing talent and desire to succeed.
Have to mention Peter Burkhart – the all-time leading run scorer for Wests – great bloke, great fielder and great bat. Deserved to play at the higher level.
Bob Simpson was an incredible batsman – loved watching Simmo play when I was young and what he did when he came out of retirement to lead Australia and his performances against India and the mighty West Indies only testament to his ability
Michael Clarke
Who played the best innings you’ve seen firsthand playing with or against?
Best dig is easily Bob Simpson at Pratten Park. Simmo had a badly torn hammy and would hardly move let alone run. Simmo scored a ton and made it look as easy as you could given his injury.
Would be remiss of me not to mention Phillip Hughes first game in Second Grade scoring a ton on debut and waiting until the last ball of a 50 over fixture to smash a six over midwicket to bring up a great Pies victory. RIP Phil – such a talent and taken too soon
Was there any bowler in particular who for whatever reason always seemed to cause you a few problems?
Usually any leg spinner. Even though I was a keeper could never pick them. Luckily lower grade spinners aren’t that consistent with line and length so can play them off the deck
Can you recall a time when you thought, wow, this is a step or two up from what you were used to in grade cricket?
Biggest step up was my when I was trialling with Wests as a 16 year old fresh out of juniors and C Grade Park cricket in the afternoon.
My first net session I was fortunate or unfortunate enough to face both Phil Kelleard and John Coyle our current First Grade opening bowlers both with brand new cherries and bowling off no more than 18. Helmets did not exist in those days. Both PK and Coyley didn’t let the youngster off the hook – it was a torrid initiation to grade cricket
Who was the best wicket keeper you’ve seen firsthand playing with or against?
Been a keeper myself is difficult as for most of my career I kept. However, was lucky to be at Wests when Greg Dyer and Steve Rixon were at the Club. Their work ethic and professionalism and ability to assist younger keepers I’m forever grateful for. Some of Steve Rixon drills were a nightmare but certainly helped my footwork. Darren Cox would probably have been the best keeper I’ve played – with, good footwork and great hands. Still doing in the Over 50’s in QLD
Greg Dyer
Who are the two players you admired most in terms of skills and competitive spirit in the competitions you played?
Two Australian captains. Bob Simpson who I did not play with but watched over many years on the hill at Pratten Park and around Sydney and the second in Michael Clarke who’s desire and will to succeed is nothing like what I’ve in any other player.
Bob Simpson
Who was the best captain you had the good fortune to play with?
Lance Brooks and Peter Jackson were the best skippers I’ve played with. Both very good tactically and good man managers. Brooksy actually got me to 3 training sessions in a week in the lead up to a semi final game so that was amazing in itself
Who has been your funniest team mate?
Michael Mara – always had a joke, never sure if he was serious or not. Most times not
Can you recall some banter or an exchange on the cricket field that still makes you laugh today?
Mark Hannigan was hilarious to keep too. He loved a chat. We were playing Penrith at Bill Ball Oval and Hanno was bowling to a player that had a hearing aid. Hanno had given him some not so polite verbal encouragement. The batsman turned to me and asked what he had said. I felt obliged to repeat it. Let’s say he was enraged. The next ball he tried to launch Hanno to the moon and missed the ball by so far it was not funny. The entire team cracked up.
Also loved my time with Ray Buchanan during our Fifth Grade Premiership year. Ray invariably fielded in close and the banter between the two of us about the batsman and what was happening resulted in many a wicket
What was your most embarrassing dismissal in senior cricket?
Any dismissal is embarrassing – bowlers can make many mistakes, but batsman make one mistake and its usually the end of the day
Who was your childhood hero?
Ian Chappell easily my childhood hero. Loved his aggression and the way he took on the game whether that be whilst he was batting or as a captain. One of, if not, the best captain Australia has ever had. Took Australia from the bottom of the barrel to the best side in the world.
Ian Chappell
Who are the three sports people in the world you’d most like to meet?
Jack Nicholas, Roger Federer, Viv Richards and Curtly Ambrose – yes, I know it is four but could not leave anyone out. Would’ve loved to have met Muhammad Ali – the absolute GOAT of boxing – watched all his fights
Jack Nicholas
Who’s your favourite cricket commentator?
Richie Benaud of course has to be the best commentator by a mile. Loved listening to Tony Cozier, Bill and Tony – great pairing. Current day commentators are rubbish except Kerry O’Keeffe – love his humour
What was your favourite ground to play at?
Loved Punchbowl Oval and the support we got from the locals. Tonkin Oval at Cronulla was always a favourite especially on a hot day as the viewing heading to the beach was always top shelf
What’s been your most memorable moment in cricket?
Any Premiership is always memorable. Our Western Suburbs 1993/94 Fifth Grade Premiership was a special moment.
Great bunch of blokes and we bonded well as a team. Forever Premiership Players. We finished the season on 72 points and were easily the best team. The joy in holding off a Sutherland side which included Stuart Clark who was playing 5’s due injury but still bowled a 45 minute spell at the death on an ordinary wicket at Punchy in the final round of the season and then to beat them the next week in the Semi Final was pure joy.
The final against St George where we only scored 160+ and then dismissed the Saints for just over 100 to claim a great victory.
Unfortunately, this is the last Premiership for the mighty Magpies – been close a number of times and my premiership hat is getting rather worn. Would love to pass that mantle over to the next generation Magpie sooner rather than later. Has been too long already ?
What’s the best win you’ve been involved with?
Any win against Bankstown is always a great win.
Best win outside of the 1993/94 premiership mentioned above as an outright win against Balmain at Punchbowl Oval. We had achieved a first innings lead just after tea on the second day. Lead was slender only 50 runs but I had a hunch and insisted Balmain bat again. Well that paid dividends. We rolled Balmain for 39 to achieve an unlikely outright win.
Who are the three players from your playing days at the top of the list for a Saturday afternoon barbeque?
Mark Tudehope, Steve Jansz and Michael Clarke
What are your hobbies?
No real hobbies as such. Love to travel. Been to over 70 countries and now that I’m retired, I hope to add to that list. Also love watching AFL (go the Pies), cricket (except T20) and most sports. Love Tour de France, World Cup Football, Olympics and NFL (go Steelers)
What’s the best advice you’ve received?
Best advice I have ever received was from my father. It was to shut up, listen and learn from the senior and more experienced players in the team. This is an art that is lost on current day players unfortunately.
These players have so much to offer if you only listen and take it in. The dressing room and social interactions either post-match or training are the best learning forums if you want them to be
What’s your occupation?
I was an Accountant (with a personality ??). Worked for Compasscorp Pty Ltd for the last 5 years. They are a vehicle hire company that provides you a vehicle if you’re involved in an accident that is not you’re fault. Currently retired and spending 6 months per year in Brazil with my partner, her family and the many friends I have there.
Are you still involved in cricket and if so, in what capacity?
Just an interested spectator and critic these days. Will be found most Saturdays at the home of cricket – Pratten Park either under the tree of knowledge or near to the canteen partaking in a glass of wine. Have been watching or playing Grade Cricket since the 1970/71 season.
Pratten Park
If you were running a state cricket association what would your 2 priorities to ensure cricket in the state remained strong and successful on and off the field?
Two changes don’t scratch the surface.
Firstly, I would pick players on form and not which academy they went through. There are a number of First Grade cricketers that are overlooked because they weren’t in the pathways program and there are others that are kept in the State side well past their use by date.
Secondly the State Associations have to be more cognisant of the resources available at grade clubs. It seems that no consideration is given to the effort required by grade clubs and their volunteers (which there are less of every year) to implement decisions and new requirements made by the State Association. All to often it is just make it happen
