The Devastating Gilly!!

Gilchrist or ‘Gilly’ as he is nicknamed was born in Bellingen, NSW. He made his shield debut in 1992-93 as a specialist batsman of his state team. In 1994 he relocated himself to Western Australia, and in 1996 he was called upon to fill the captaincy role. That year, he was also called to cover for the injured Healy in and ODI series tournament for Australia. Healy was amongst a band of players designated as ‘Test Only’ cricketers and ousted. Gilchrist’s big hitting was much desired and he got the nod.

Gilchrist’s first appearance on Australian soil was in Sydney against South Africa in December 1997 for the 1997-1998 World Series, - How was booed. At scores of 4, 29, 29, 11, 21, 28, 6abd 20, he was batting down the orders at six and seven. But in the three finals series against South Africa, Gilchrist was moved up the order to open the batting with Mark Waugh. He hit a huge 100 off 104. At 100, he revised his bat to the Sydney crowd, which had booed him…this time they applauded him…

As an ODI batsman, he is now rated as one of the most dangerous in the world. He holds the record for the highest ODI innings in Australia (154 against Sri Lanka in 1999). He is a great team man and in no time has been promoted to the Vice Captain post. He has played some wonderful knocks in the past few months and has earned the respect of many fast bowlers around the World who have found him tough to bowl to. He is an integral part of the team and if he gets going then the bowlers just run for cover.