Michael holding debut

On this day in 1975, a young Jamaican fast bowler stepped onto the Brisbane turf for his first taste of Test cricket. Just 21 years old, he began his debut in an unfamiliar role—walking in at No. 8 and crafting a steady 34 in the first innings. When he was sent out as a night watchman in the second innings, he dug in again for 19 runs at No. 3.

But the real test came with the ball. Despite sending down long spells, he finished wicketless, conceding 127 runs as Australia eased to an eight-wicket win. It was a tough initiation, but the cricket world had no idea what was coming next.

Fast forward 12 years, and that same bowler had become one of the most feared forces the game has ever seen. He ended his career with 249 Test wickets at an exceptional average of 23.68, including a breathtaking best of 14 for 149. He also chipped in with 910 handy runs, with a top score of 73.

Today marks 50 years since the debut of the great Michael Holding—the man the world came to know as “Whispering Death.” A legend whose journey began quietly, but resonated for generations.