Esteban Alfredo “Billy” MacDermott: An Argentine Cricketer
Esteban Alfredo “Billy” MacDermott was an Argentine cricketer who represented his country at the highest level for more than a decade. Despite coming from a country where cricket is not as popular as in some other parts of the world, MacDermott made a name for himself as a skilled bowler and a handy lower-order batsman. In this article, we will take a closer look at the life and career of this legendary Argentine cricketer.
Early Life and Background
Esteban Alfredo MacDermott was born on 6 August 1911 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He grew up in a family that was passionate about sports, particularly cricket. His father, John MacDermott, was a former cricketer who had represented Argentina in the 1900s. Esteban followed in his father’s footsteps and started playing cricket at a young age. He was a natural athlete and excelled in many sports, including rugby and soccer.
Cricket Career
MacDermott made his debut for the Argentine national cricket team in 1932, at the age of 21. He quickly established himself as one of the best bowlers in the team and was known for his ability to swing the ball both ways. He was also a reliable lower-order batsman and could chip in with important runs when needed.
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In 1935, MacDermott played a crucial role in Argentina’s tour of Europe, where the team won several matches against strong opposition. MacDermott was the leading wicket-taker on the tour, with 49 wickets at an average of 12.77. He also scored 441 runs at an average of 25.94, including two half-centuries.
MacDermott continued to play for Argentina throughout the 1930s and 1940s. He was a regular member of the team and played in several important matches, including the Interport matches against Chile and Uruguay. He was known for his fierce competitiveness and his never-say-die attitude.
Legacy and Honors
Esteban Alfredo MacDermott retired from cricket in the early 1950s, after a long and illustrious career. He had played a total of 24 matches for Argentina, taking 90 wickets at an average of 17.43. He also scored 830 runs at an average of 24.41, including four half-centuries.
MacDermott’s contribution to Argentine cricket was recognized in 1988 when he was inducted into the Argentine Cricket Hall of Fame. He was the first cricketer to be inducted into the Hall of Fame and remains one of the most revered figures in Argentine cricket history.
Personal Life
Esteban Alfredo MacDermott was not just a great cricketer, but also a loving husband and father. He married his childhood sweetheart, Carmen, and they had four children together. MacDermott was a devoted family man and always made time for his loved ones, even during the peak of his cricketing career.
Conclusion
Esteban Alfredo “Billy” MacDermott was a true legend of Argentine cricket. He was a skilled bowler, a reliable batsman, and a fierce competitor. He represented his country with pride and passion, and his contribution to Argentine cricket will always be remembered. MacDermott’s story is a testament to the fact that cricket is truly a global sport, with talented players and passionate fans in every corner of the world.
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FAQs
- Was Esteban Alfredo MacDermott the first Argentine cricketer to be inducted into the Argentine Cricket Hall of Fame?
Yes, MacDermott was the first cricketer to be inducted into the Argentine Cricket Hall of Fame in 1988.
- What made Esteban Alfredo MacDermott a skilled bowler?
MacDermott was known for his ability to swing the ball both ways, which made him a challenging bowler for any batsman to face. He also had excellent control over his deliveries and was able to bowl at a consistent pace.
- How did MacDermott contribute to Argentina’s tour of Europe in 1935?
MacDermott played a crucial role in Argentina’s tour of Europe in 1935, where the team won several matches against strong opposition. MacDermott was the leading wicket-taker on the tour, with 49 wickets at an average of 12.77. He also scored 441 runs at an average of 25.94, including two half-centuries.
- Did Esteban Alfredo MacDermott have any other interests besides cricket?
MacDermott was a natural athlete and excelled in many sports, including rugby and soccer. He was also an avid golfer and enjoyed playing the sport in his free time.
- What is Esteban Alfredo MacDermott’s legacy in Argentine cricket?
MacDermott’s legacy in Argentine cricket is significant. He was a trailblazer for the sport in his country and helped raise the profile of cricket in Argentina. He is remembered as one of the greatest cricketers to ever represent Argentina and his contribution to the sport is celebrated to this day.
