As the historic Ashes rivalry between Australia and England approaches its 150th year, the spotlight returns to some of Newcastle and Hunter region's most memorable contributions to cricket's greatest contest. With the 2025-2026 home series looming, we revisit the extraordinary feats of local legends who left their mark on this timeless battle.
The Dungog Dynamo: Doug Walters' Iconic Century
Doug Walters, affectionately known as 'Dougie' from his Dungog roots, created one of the most celebrated moments in Ashes history during the 1974 series. In an astonishing display of batting prowess, Walters scored a century within a single session at the WACA ground. The dramatic climax saw him smash English fast bowler Bob Willis for a six on the final ball of the day to reach his hundred.
The right-handed batsman was dismissed immediately the next morning, but his explosive 103 runs had already secured Australia's dominance. The hosts raced to 4-352 in response to England's 208, eventually winning the second Test by nine wickets and claiming the series 4-1. Walters had earlier announced his arrival in Ashes cricket with back-to-back centuries on debut during the 1965 series.
Hunter Valley Heroes: From Broken Jaws to Lord's Glory
Rick McCosker's bravery during the 1977 Centenary Test at the MCG remains etched in cricket folklore. After suffering a broken jaw from a Bob Willis bouncer in the first innings, McCosker returned bandaged and determined in the second dig. Coming in at number ten, he forged a crucial 54-run partnership with Rod Marsh that helped Australia secure a remarkable 45-run victory - exactly the same margin as the original match 100 years earlier.
Robert 'Dutchy' Holland enjoyed his Ashes moment at the hallowed Lord's Cricket Ground in 1985. Making his Test debut at 38, the leg-spinner claimed impressive figures of 5-68 in the second Test, including the prized wicket of English superstar Ian Botham. This remained Australia's sole victory that series, highlighting Holland's significant impact despite his brief international career.
Local Legends: Gilmour's Seam and Wilson's View
Newcastle all-rounder Gary 'Gus' Gilmour made his first Ashes appearance count at Headingly in 1975. The left-arm seamer finished with outstanding match figures of 9-157, including a Test-best innings haul of 6-85. Gilmour trapped three English batsmen leg before wicket and dismissed John Snow twice, though the match ultimately ended in a draw after pitch vandalism prevented play on the final day.
Paul 'Blocker' Wilson's Ashes involvement came from an entirely different perspective. After a playing career that included one Test and eleven ODIs in the late 1990s, Wilson transitioned to umpiring. During the COVID-affected 2021-2022 summer, travel restrictions led to Australian umpires being used, giving the Medowie resident the best seat in the house for Scott Boland's unforgettable debut at the MCG.
From Walters' brilliant century to McCosker's courageous comeback, these Newcastle and Hunter representatives have provided some of the most enduring memories in Ashes history. As another chapter in this storied rivalry prepares to unfold, their legacy continues to inspire new generations of Australian cricketers.
