OSSIE COLHOUN- “THE BRILLIANT”
The most complete wicket keeper of the four is the legendary Ossie Colhoun. The fact that he is the most capped Irish Cricketer of all time speaks volumes in itself. Ossie possessed an abundance of all the qualities I have previously mentioned – technique, aggression, enthusiasm and athleticism, but the asset which set him apart from the rest was his tremendous flair. He was able to repeatedly produce moments of magic, quite often at times when his colleagues were in dire need of inspiration after spending several hours “leather hunting”. Consistent brilliance was his trademark and his wonderful style afforded him the unique ability to still look good even when he was having a rare “off” day. His value to the teams he played with did not end on the field of play as he was always a joker and a great contributor to the general team spirit.
Ossie retired from International cricket in 1980 having played some 87 International matches in a glittering career which began in 1959. He is not only a living legend in North-West cricket but throughout Ireland as his 148 catches and 42 stumpings will testify.
RUNS A “BONUS”
I have deliberately not compared the relative batting skills or lack of same as I believe that wicket keepers should be judged by their performance behind the stumps! Runs from a wicket keeper must always be considered a bonus. I say this with an element of respect as all four have on various occasions provided important runs but the nature in which they achieved them confirms my judgement. Denis Artt did finish in the top four of the N.C.U. averages in 1975 but his “variety” of unorthodox shots are out off no textbook much like his fellow wicket keepers!
Playing cricket with and against these talented men has given me great pleasure over the years and I doubt if four wicket keepers of such outstanding ability will emerge in the one era again in Irish Cricket.
