Steve Bernard OAM First Grade Player No.277

St George Cricket Club | December 29, 2024

On this his 75th birthday (December 28th) it’s an appropriate opportunity to recognise the outstanding career of St George Hall of Fame member, Steve Bernard.

After distinguished service to the Northern District club and first class performances that saw him capture 85 wickets, opening the bowling for NSW, Bernard joined St George for the 1979/80 season. As well as opening the attack with Richard Done, he took on the additional responsibility of Club Coach, a role that saw him working to develop the significant number of local, talented players. He achieved outstanding success in both positions. The AW Green Shield team winning the competition in his second year, seven members of that team going on to play first grade.

In his early career Bernard was known for his pace and venom, at St George he developed greater wile and cunning while still possessing the ability to put the batsman on the back foot. These skills saw him finish his six seasons at St George with 212 first grade wickets at 14.58. Remarkably he captured these wickets at a rate of one wicket every seven overs, any wonder he was the ‘go to’ for his captain.

St George 1st Grade 81-82 Back Row – Mark Osborne, Richard Done, Steve Bernard, Jon Jobson, Murray Bennet, Brian Corbett (Scorer) Front Row – Paul Bourke, Les Johns, Ray Gonella, Greg Matchett, Brett Patman, Ray Tozer

Season 1982/83 saw Bernard taking 64 wickets, leading the attack as he did in 1984/85 when the Saints won the First Grade flag. After capturing the Minor Premiership they defeated reigning Premiers Randwick in the semi-final, before overcoming Western Suburbs in the final. His 3/34 off 28 overs was a fitting end to a stellar first grade career.

Post playing, Bernard has continued his close association with the game. After commencing as a State selector, while still playing in 1983, he maintained this position until 1995. From 1993/94 he was an Australian selector and he was highly respected by players and administrators for his deep knowledge of the game and the ability to communicate effectively. These traits made him the perfect fit to take on the hugely responsible position of Australian team manager in 1998. He held this role until 2010/11and was recognised for his calm influence and considered opinions, often in challenging environments. On retirement from administration Bernard was asked to join the ICC panel of referees, a role he also holds for Australian cricket.

When St George DCC celebrated its Centenary in 2010/11 a Team of the Century was selected with Steve Bernard an easy choice for the panel. The following quote from the First Grade report of 1984/85 providing the perfect summary of his contribution to the Club.

‘His knowledge of the game and his influence on all other members of the side will be sadly missed due to his retirement. There can be no doubt that Stephen Bernard is one of the greatest opening bowlers to ever represent St George.’