Cricket fans across the Tasman Sea can breathe a sigh of relief! The ICC Hall of Fame website has corrected its embarrassing mistake of listing New Zealand cricketing legends Sir Richard Hadlee, Debbie Hockley, and the late Martin Crowe as Australians. Thankfully, trans-Tasman cricketing equilibrium has been restored.
Just a day after the error came to light, sparking confusion and amusement, all three Kiwi icons have been rightfully classified as New Zealanders. Their entries now proudly display the Southern Cross and four red stars of their national flag.
The legendary all-rounder Sir Richard Hadlee, inducted into the Hall in 2009, had lightheartedly requested the correction: “We come from New Zealand, I just hope somebody can correct it,” he told RNZ. His wish was granted swiftly.
ICC rectify New Zealand blunders
Further rectifying the oversight, the website now includes New Zealand in its drop-down menu for Test-playing nations, which was previously missing. While the ICC hasn’t commented on the duration of the error, its swift resolution is welcome news.
Sir Richard Hadlee, revered as New Zealand’s finest cricketer, needs no introduction. With a national record of 431 Test wickets and 3124 runs, his legacy is undeniable. Debbie Hockley, a pioneering all-rounder in women’s cricket, shattered records, becoming the first to play 100 ODIs and score 4000 runs in the format. The late Martin Crowe, with his elegant batting and 5444 Test runs, earned global admiration.
This correction ensures these Kiwi heroes rightfully hold their place in cricket’s hall of fame, representing their nation with pride. With this blunder resolved, cricket fans can once again appreciate the exceptional contributions of these New Zealand legends without geographical confusion.
