Brad Haddin has been a valuable servant of Australian cricket for the best part of 15 years. As one of the country’s leading wicketkeepers, he was always going to be the logical replacement for Adam Gilchrist.
The New South Welshman was forced to bide his time in State cricket for a number of years, where he led his side with aplomb. Over 8000 runs in First Class cricket convinced national selectors that Haddin was the right man for the job once the legendary Gilchrist decided to hang up the gloves.
Despite making his ODI debut back in 2001, it wasn’t until the West Indies tour of 2008 that Haddin finally got the call to play for the Test side.
Although he didn’t make any noticeable contributions with the bat against the West Indies or even India, Haddin finally broke free from Gilchrist’s shadows with a heroic 169 against New Zealand in Adelaide. The knock was reminiscent of his predecessor, with the incumbent hitting the ball with consummate ease.
With question marks over his batting clouding the 2010/11 Ashes campaign, Haddin answered his critics with a much needed 136 in the series opener in Brisbane.
A disappointing series against India on home soil sealed his fate, and Matthew Wade has been the nation’s keeper ever since.
Haddin hasn’t given up hope just yet, hitting a glorious century in the opening match of the Bupa Sheffield Shield, and following up by leading the Sydney Sixers to a win in the final of the CLT20.
There is still a strong case for Haddin to be considered as a specialist batsman in limited overs cricket, as his form in T20 and ODI’s has always remained first class.
Haddin was recalled to the Test team during the VB Tour of India after Matthew Wade succumbed to injury, with his experience and wicketkeeping ability standing out.
If he doesn’t play again for Australia, Haddin will be remembered for his clean hitting ability, and his excellent work behind the stumps. A Test average of 35.50, as well as 169 dismissals indicates he was one of Australia’s most consistent wicketkeeper –batsmen.
