Ian Andrew Healy (born April 30, 1964 in Brisbane), one of Australia's most successful wicketkeepers, played in 119 Test matches and 168 one-day internationals from 1988 to 1999. He took 366 catches and completed 29 stumpings. Although he has been overshadowed as a batsman by current Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist, he was a very useful lower-order batsman, with over 4000 Test runs at 27.39, including 4 centuries (high score 161 not out) and 22 half-centuries. Healy was known for his energy and optimism and could frequently be heard on effects microphones encouraging the rest of the team ("...bowled Shane"). He has gone on to a career in the commentary box.
Career
Healy made his debut for the Queensland state team in the 1986-1987 season, as understudy to Peter Anderson . He was a shock call-up to the Australian national team for the 1988-1989 tour of Pakistan, having played only a few first-class games to date, when it was expected more experienced wicketkeepers such as Tim Zoehrer or Greg Dyer might have gone in his place.
Through constant training and self-betterment Healy established himself as one of history's greatest wicketkeepers, and when he had Pakistan batsman Wasim Akram caught from Colin Miller's bowling on October 4, 1998 in Islamabad, he became the most successful Test wicketkeeper ever, going past Rod Marsh's previous record with his 356th career dismissal. He was widely considered the world's best wicketkeeper when he announced his retirement from all cricket in 1999.
Teams
Career Summary
Tests
Test Debut: vs Pakistan, Karachi, 1988-89
Last Test: vs Zimbabwe, Harare, 1999
One-day internationals
ODI Debut: vs Pakistan, Lahore, 1988-89
Last ODI: vs England, Lord's, 1997
External link
Cricinfo page on Ian Healy
Last updated: 10-08-2005 15:03:31
