Herbie Collins, Australian cricketer (d. 1959)

Herbert "Herbie" Collins: An Australian Sporting Icon

Herbert Leslie Collins, affectionately known as Herbie, was a prominent Australian sportsman born on 21 January 1888, whose multifaceted career spanned both cricket and rugby league. He left an indelible mark on Australian sport before his passing on 28 May 1959.

A Distinguished Cricket Career Delayed by War

Herbie Collins was a gifted all-rounder in cricket, a player highly valued for his ability to contribute significantly with both bat and ball. His Test career, which saw him play 19 matches for Australia between 1921 and 1926, was notably impacted by the First World War. This global conflict effectively delayed his prime years as a cricketer, as he was in his early twenties when the war began.

Despite this delay, Collins amassed 1,352 runs in his Test career at an impressive average of 45.06, including four crucial centuries. He also assumed the leadership role, captaining the Australian team in eleven Test matches. Under his captaincy, Australia achieved five victories, suffered two defeats, and drew four matches, showcasing a respectable leadership record in the demanding arena of international cricket.

Rugby League Success: A Dual-Sport Talent

Beyond the cricket pitch, Collins demonstrated exceptional athleticism and skill in rugby league, a testament to his versatility as a sportsman. He was a key player for the Eastern Suburbs club, now widely known as the Sydney Roosters, achieving significant success by winning the 1911 New South Wales Rugby Football League (NSWRFL) season's grand final. This victory underscored his ability to excel at the highest level in two distinct national sports, a rare feat for any athlete.

Gambling, Military Service, and Cricket's Unconventional Path

Herbie Collins' life and career were significantly shaped by his experiences, notably his time serving as a soldier during the Great War (World War I). It was during this period of intense pressure and uncertainty that his keen interest in gambling developed into a habitual pastime, a trait that would remain with him throughout his life.

The Australian Imperial Forces (AIF) XI Tour

Following the cessation of hostilities, Collins was an integral member of the Australian Imperial Forces (AIF) cricket team, often referred to as the AIF XI. This touring side played a crucial role in post-war rehabilitation and international goodwill, embarking on extensive tours of England, South Africa, and Australia. The AIF XI provided a vital opportunity for returning soldiers to reintegrate into civilian life through sport, and Collins' leadership qualities saw him appointed captain of this significant team, honing his skills for future international challenges.

An Unorthodox Batting Style and Fading Bowling

As a batsman, Herbie Collins was renowned not for a graceful or powerful technique, but for his sheer effectiveness and tactical acumen. He was considered an unorthodox player, relying less on forceful drives and more on delicate nudges, precise deflections, and clever placement to accumulate runs. This unique approach made him a challenging opponent for bowlers.

Initially, Collins also contributed with the ball, deploying a slow left-arm off-spin delivered with a distinctive two-step run-up. While effective during the AIF XI tours and in domestic cricket, his bowling was seldom seen at the highest Test level after those tours, as his focus increasingly shifted towards his primary role as a top-order batsman and captain.

A Century on Test Debut and Unexpected Captaincy

Herbie Collins' Test debut against England at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) was nothing short of spectacular. He marked this momentous occasion by scoring a magnificent 104 runs in the second innings, becoming only the fifth Australian cricketer in history to achieve a century on Test debut – a rare and remarkable feat that immediately solidified his place in the national team.

His ascent to captaincy was swift and somewhat unexpected. In 1921, during Australia's tour of South Africa, Collins was appointed captain of the Australian team after the legendary Warwick Armstrong, a colossal figure in Australian cricket, fell ill. Collins seamlessly stepped into this demanding role, leading his country with distinction.

Controversy and Retirement: The End of an Era

Herbie Collins' distinguished Test career concluded in 1926 under a cloud of disappointment and suspicion. Australia, the defending champions, lost the highly coveted Ashes series to England, with the decisive Fifth Test at The Oval proving particularly contentious. The Ashes, cricket's oldest and most fiercely contested international rivalry, represents the pinnacle of competition between England and Australia.

Unsubstantiated Match-Fixing Allegations

Following the 1926 Ashes defeat, whispers and outright accusations of match-fixing began to circulate, primarily from some former players and cricket administrators of the era. These allegations suggested that the outcome of the pivotal Fifth Test might have been influenced by illicit means. However, it is crucial to note that despite these suspicions, no material or credible evidence has ever emerged to substantiate these claims. Herbie Collins was never formally charged, and the allegations remain unproven speculation rather than established fact.

A New Chapter: From Cricket to Horse Racing

Upon his retirement from Test cricket, Herbie Collins transitioned his professional focus, leveraging his extensive knowledge and lifelong affinity for gambling into a new career within the vibrant world of horse racing. He found success working as both a bookmaker, setting odds and taking bets, and as a commission agent, facilitating wagers for others. This new path allowed him to remain deeply involved in a competitive arena, applying his strategic mind and understanding of probabilities gained from years of personal gambling and high-stakes sport.

Frequently Asked Questions about Herbie Collins

Who was Herbie Collins?

Herbie Collins was a prominent Australian all-rounder cricketer who played 19 Test matches and captained Australia in 11 Tests between 1921 and 1926. He was also a successful rugby league footballer.

What was Herbie Collins' cricketing style?

Collins was an unorthodox batsman known for his effective use of nudges, deflections, and precise placement rather than forceful hitting. He also bowled slow left-arm off-spin, though less frequently in Test matches.

Did Herbie Collins face match-fixing allegations?

Yes, Herbie Collins' Test career ended amid suspicion following Australia's loss of the 1926 Ashes series, with some former players and administrators alleging match-fixing. However, it is important to note that no material evidence ever emerged to support these claims, and he was never formally charged.

What did Herbie Collins do after his cricket career?

After retiring from cricket, Herbie Collins pursued a career in horse racing, utilizing his extensive gambling knowledge to work as both a bookmaker and a commission agent.