The 1930-31, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Cricket Association final in Canberra was a match of epic proportions, far greater than any timeless Test match.
The scenario appeared simple. To find a winner, the match had to be played to a finish, meaning the completion of four innings by the two combatants, Ainslie and Northbourne.
The first days play was scheduled to commence on Saturday, March 21, 1931, however, due to heavy rain late in the week, the match did not start till the following Saturday, March 28.
In what was described as excellent conditions, Ainslie on winning the toss and batting first, through some very cautious play, had reached four for 155 when around 5-30pm an appeal against the light was upheld by the umpires and stumps were drawn.
