Hedley Verity And The Story Of Cricket's Greatest Bowling Feat

Cricket has witnessed numerous exceptional performances by bowlers throughout its long and storied history. From Shane Warne's breathtaking spin wizardry to Malcolm Marshall's devastating pace, the game has seen its fair share of remarkable feats. However, one name stands out among the rest when it comes to singular bowling achievements – Hedley Verity, the Yorkshire and England left-arm spinner, whose astonishing display against Australia in 1932 still captivates cricket enthusiasts around the globe.

Verity's spellbinding success took place during the 10th Ashes Test, held at Headingley cricket ground in Leeds. Having already won the series, Australia entered the game with a seemingly invincible aura. However, little did they anticipate the monumental impact that Verity was about to have on the match.

The first innings saw Verity assert his dominance, securing a career-best figure of 7 for 61 as Australia were bowled out for a modest 148 runs. With the match poised delicately, Verity weaved his magic again in the second innings. This time, the Yorkshire spinner went above and beyond, achieving a staggering 8 for 43, which included taking the final three wickets in just four balls. This remarkable feat propelled England to a remarkable victory, bowling Australia out for a mere 114 runs. Moreover, it remains a record for the best-ever bowling figures in an Ashes Test innings.

10 for 10: Hedley Verity and the Story of Cricket’s Greatest Bowling Feat

by Bridget Zinn(Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	12671 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	233 pages

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Verity's bowling mastery lied in his exceptional control, variation, and the ability to exploit any conditions to his advantage. He was an intelligent, thinking bowler, who relied on flight, subtle changes in pace, and a repertoire of spinning deliveries to deceive batsmen. His relentless accuracy and unwavering focus allowed him to dominate some of the finest batting lineups of his time.

However, Verity's iconic performance at Headingley was not the only moment of brilliance in his illustrious career. Over a span of 40 Test matches, Verity claimed a staggering 144 wickets at an average of just 24.37. His economical bowling style and knack for crucial breakthroughs made him an invaluable asset to both the Yorkshire and England teams.

Verity's impact extended beyond the international arena. At the county level, he left an indelible mark on the game, leading Yorkshire to several triumphs. His consistency, accompanied by his match-winning performances, ensured that he became a revered figure in the history of Yorkshire cricket. Hedley Verity embodies the very essence of English spinning tradition, serving as an inspiration for generations of spinners to come.

Tragically, Verity's glorious career was cut short by World War II, during which he served as a soldier. His unwavering commitment to his country led him to join the Green Howards infantry regiment, and he tragically lost his life during a battle in Sicily in 1943. Verity's untimely death left a void in the cricketing world, and his legacy remains cherished until this day.

Decades after his passing, Verity's remarkable bowling figures and the impact he had on the cricketing landscape continue to be celebrated. Whenever discussions arise surrounding the greatest spinners in the sport's history, Verity's name resurfaces with awe and reverence. His remarkable feat against Australia in 1932 stands as a testament to his sheer skill, determination, and undeniable greatness.

, Hedley Verity's mesmerizing spell at Headingley in 1932 remains a prominent occurrence in cricket's rich tapestry. His delicate flight, impeccable control, and the ability to consistently outfox batsmen solidify his place among the greatest bowlers to ever grace the game. Verity exemplifies the relentless pursuit of excellence and serves as a timeless reminder of the beauty and brilliance that can be achieved through hard work and dedication.

10 for 10: Hedley Verity and the Story of Cricket’s Greatest Bowling Feat

by Bridget Zinn(Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	12671 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	233 pages

FREE

Hedley Verity was one of Yorkshire and England's greatest cricketers. In a career that ran from 1930 to 1939, the left-arm spin bowler took 1,956 wickets at an average of 14.90. Verity was chiefly responsible for England's only Ashes victory at Lord's in the 20th century, when his 15 wickets helped to win the 1934 Test - 14 of them captured in a single day. And he dismissed the legendary Australian batsman Don Bradman more times than anyone in Test cricket, claiming his wicket on eight occasions - and a record-equalling 10 times in first class cricket. But the high-water mark of Verity's career came during a long-forgotten County Championship match in 1932. On the Headingley ground near his birthplace, Verity returned staggering figures of 10 for 10 against Nottinghamshire - a world record that still stands.

Now, for the first time, the story of this amazing game has been told as Chris Waters narrates it in relation to Verity's career - a career that ended with the outbreak of a war in which Verity was tragically killed at the age of 38.

Warm and wistful, charming and colourful, 10 for 10: Hedley Verity and the story of cricket's greatest bowling feathonours the history of our summer sport.