Dick Motz, New Zealand cricketer (d. 2007)

Richard Charles Motz: A Pioneering New Zealand Cricketer

Richard Charles Motz, born on January 12, 1940, and who sadly passed away on April 29, 2007, left an indelible mark on New Zealand cricket. A significant figure in the national team during the 1960s, Motz was revered for his dual capabilities as a potent right-arm fast bowler and a resourceful, hard-hitting lower-order batsman. His contributions were vital to the New Zealand cricket team, particularly during an era when the nation was actively striving to establish its presence on the international stage.

A Formidable Fast Bowler

As a right-arm fast-medium bowler, Richard Motz was renowned for his genuine pace, control, and the ability to extract disconcerting bounce from the pitch. His consistent line and length, coupled with a knack for subtle seam movement, made him a persistent threat to opposition batsmen. Motz was often lauded as a workhorse bowler, capable of delivering long, demanding spells with unwavering determination. This exceptional endurance and commitment made him the spearhead of the Black Caps' pace attack, a crucial asset for a team that frequently relied on a core group of key performers to compete against more established cricketing nations.

Valuable Lower-Order Contributions

While primarily a bowler, Motz’s cricketing utility extended to his batting. He was recognized as a hard-hitting lower-order batsman, known for his aggressive approach and capacity to score quick, vital runs when the team needed them most. These often-crucial contributions from the tail could significantly influence the momentum of a game or add valuable runs to the team's total, underscoring his all-round value to the New Zealand side.

Pioneering the 100-Wicket Mark in Test Cricket

Richard Motz's distinguished Test career spanned eight years, from his debut against South Africa in December 1961 to his final appearance against West Indies in March 1969. During this period, he played 32 Test matches for the New Zealand cricket team. His most significant and enduring legacy, however, was etched into the history books on the bowling front: he became the *first* bowler from New Zealand to achieve the remarkable milestone of taking 100 wickets in Test cricket. This landmark achievement occurred in his 29th Test match, during the 1969 series against the West Indies, highlighting his consistency and pivotal role in New Zealand's developing cricketing landscape. He concluded his career with exactly 100 Test wickets at a respectable average of 31.54, including two five-wicket hauls in an innings. Motz's dedication and performance set a crucial precedent and laid a foundational pathway for future generations of New Zealand fast bowlers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Richard Motz

Who was Richard Motz?
Richard Charles Motz was a prominent New Zealand Test cricketer (1940-2007) known primarily as a right-arm fast bowler and a hard-hitting lower-order batsman.
What was Richard Motz's main cricketing achievement?
His most significant achievement was becoming the first bowler for New Zealand to take 100 wickets in Test cricket, a milestone he reached in his 29th Test match.
How many Test matches did Richard Motz play for New Zealand?
Richard Motz played 32 Test matches for the New Zealand cricket team between 1961 and 1969.
What was Richard Motz's role in the New Zealand cricket team?
He was a key fast bowler who spearheaded the attack and also contributed valuable runs as a hard-hitting lower-order batsman, making him a crucial all-rounder for his team.