Births on January 26

Simon O'Donnell, Australian footballer, cricketer, and sportscaster

Simon Patrick O'Donnell, born on 26 January 1963, is a highly respected and multifaceted Australian sporting figure whose remarkable career has spanned professional cricket, elite Australian Rules Football (VFL), and prominent roles in sports media and the thoroughbred racing industry. Known for his aggressive, all-round capabilities on the field and his insightful commentary off it, O'Donnell has left an indelible mark across multiple domains of Australian sport, embodying resilience and versatility.

A Dual-Sport Professional: Cricket and VFL Football

O'Donnell uniquely excelled at the highest levels in two demanding Australian sports, showcasing exceptional athleticism and versatility rarely seen in professional athletes.

Illustrious Cricket Career

Primarily known as a dynamic right-arm fast-medium bowler and an aggressive right-hand middle-order batsman, Simon O'Donnell was a key all-rounder for the Australian national cricket team. He played six Test matches and 87 One Day Internationals (ODIs) between 1985 and 1992, often providing crucial breakthroughs with the ball and rapid runs with the bat. Domestically, he represented Victoria with distinction in Sheffield Shield and List A cricket, where his powerful hitting and effective bowling often turned matches in his team's favour.

• One Day International Record Holder: O'Donnell famously held the world record for the fastest fifty in One Day International cricket. During an ODI against Sri Lanka in Sharjah on 27 April 1990, he reached his half-century in an astonishing 18 balls. This remarkable feat stood as a world record for over two decades, eventually equalled by Brendon McCullum of New Zealand, who scored a 50 off 18 balls against England in 2015, and then decisively broken by AB de Villiers of South Africa, who achieved it in an even quicker 16 balls against West Indies in 2015.
• Career Highlights: Beyond his record-breaking fifty, O'Donnell was a vital member of the Australian team that secured the 1987 Cricket World Cup, contributing with both bat and ball, including a crucial half-century against India in a group stage match. His playing career was unfortunately impacted by injuries and a courageous battle with non-Hodgkin lymphoma in the early 1990s, from which he made a full recovery, further solidifying his reputation for resilience and determination.

Venturing into VFL Football

Prior to and during parts of his cricket career, O'Donnell also pursued professional Australian Rules Football in the Victorian Football League (VFL), now known as the Australian Football League (AFL). He played for the St Kilda Football Club, making four senior appearances in 1982. This dual-sport proficiency at an elite level is a testament to his rare athletic talent and dedication, as very few athletes achieve professional status in two distinct major sports concurrently.

From Field to Commentary Box: A Prominent Media Personality

Following his playing days, Simon O'Donnell seamlessly transitioned into a highly successful career in sports media, becoming a familiar voice and face across Australian airwaves and television screens, known for his insightful analysis and engaging personality.

• Cricket Commentary: He has been a long-standing and respected cricket commentator for Channel Nine, a primary broadcaster of international cricket in Australia. His insights, often combining technical analysis with personal anecdotes from his extensive playing days, have made him a popular figure among fans, providing depth and colour to match coverage.
• Horse Racing Commentary and Analysis: O'Donnell's profound passion for horse racing led him to become a prominent commentator and analyst in the sport. He has contributed significantly to coverage on various platforms, including Sky Racing and leading radio networks, sharing his deep knowledge of thoroughbred breeding, form analysis, and race strategy, making him a trusted voice in the industry.
• Radio Sports Shows: His versatile media presence also includes hosting and co-hosting popular sports radio programs, notably on Melbourne's SEN (Sports Entertainment Network), where he discusses a wide array of sporting topics, engages directly with listeners, and offers his unique perspectives on the sporting landscape.

Current Endeavours: A Force in Horse Racing

Simon O'Donnell's enduring passion for equine sports has seen him transition from a celebrated commentator to a significant figure within the thoroughbred racing industry as a breeder and bloodstock consultant, actively shaping its future.

• Horse Breeder: He is actively involved in thoroughbred breeding, owning and operating properties dedicated to nurturing high-quality racehorses from their earliest stages. His breeding operations aim to produce champions and contribute to the future of Australian racing. For instance, he has been a co-owner of successful Group 1 winners like the Caulfield Cup victor Jameka, showcasing his astute eye for equine talent and commitment to the sport.
• Bloodstock Consultant and "Enabler": O'Donnell often acts as a highly sought-after bloodstock agent or consultant, effectively "enabling" partnerships and investments in racehorses for syndicates and individuals. This crucial role involves identifying promising yearlings and established racing stock, advising on strategic purchases at sales, and facilitating the acquisition and management of racing assets for owners. His extensive network, deep experience, and trusted reputation within the racing world make him an invaluable expert in this field.

Frequently Asked Questions about Simon O'Donnell

What sports did Simon O'Donnell play professionally?

Simon O'Donnell played professional cricket for the Australian national team and Victoria, and professional Australian Rules Football (VFL) for the St Kilda Football Club, showcasing remarkable dual-sport athleticism.

Did Simon O'Donnell hold a world record in cricket?

Yes, Simon O'Donnell held the world record for the fastest One Day International (ODI) half-century, achieved in 18 balls against Sri Lanka in 1990. This record stood for over two decades before being equalled and then surpassed.

What is Simon O'Donnell's current involvement in the horse racing industry?

Currently, Simon O'Donnell is a prominent horse breeder, actively involved in nurturing thoroughbreds, and also serves as a bloodstock consultant, identifying, acquiring, and developing top-tier racehorses for various owners and syndicates.

What was Simon O'Donnell's primary role in the Australian cricket team?

Simon O'Donnell was an aggressive all-rounder for the Australian cricket team, known for his effective right-arm fast-medium bowling and powerful right-hand batting in the middle order. He was a key member of the squad that famously won the 1987 Cricket World Cup.