Introduction

This evening, the Australian Services Cricket Association recognises the 50th Anniversary of the formation of the 1945 Australian Services Cricket Team under the captaincy of Lindsay Hassett.

Whether it be in peace or war, sport plays an important part in the morale of its people. This aspect was not lost on those responsible for the organisation of the five "Victory" Tests, and the effect that an Australia versus England cricket series would have on a war-ravaged and cricket-starved England. The 1945 side followed in the footsteps of the First Australian Imperial Forces XI, captained by Herbie Collins, which was formed at the end of World War 1 and undertook a tour of the United Kingdom, South Africa and several States in Australia.

The Australians of the World War II side were drawn from military elements based in either the United Kingdom or the Middle East. Under the command of Squadron Leader Stan Sismey, the team played matches in the United Kingdom, India, Ceylon and finally Australia between May 1945 and January 1946. Their record of 26 wins, 25 draws and 13 loses is testimony to the success of Lindsay's team.

By embarking upon a hasty but ambitious programme, the team provided enjoyment to tens of thousands of people who were seeking some respite and relaxation after six years of war. The enthusiasm of the English people can be assessed by their attendance at the five "Victory" Test matches, which were each of three days duration:

       First Test, Lords                70,000
       Second Test, Sheffield        50,000
       Third Test, Lords                84,000
       Forth Test, Lords                93,000
       Fifth Test, Manchester        73,000

A total of 370,000 spectators for fifteen days of cricket with a result of 2 wins, 2 losses and a draw.

Too many, the "Victory' Tests represented an Ashes series: however, both sides contained few players who had represented their country at the highest level. For Australia, Hassett was the only player with any Test experience; however, numerous members had played Sheffield Shield cricket. But this did not stop both sides being embraced by those who came, watched and enjoyed. Stan Sismey, in his memoirs of the tour, wrote:

"What might be described as one of the most emotional and moving
experiences to occur on a cricket field, took place during the First Test
at Lords. Graham Williams had been a prisoner-of-war for nearly four
years, and when he walked out onto the ground to bat for the
Australians, the whole crowd stood as one and gave him a most
moving and prolonged reception."

Without doubt, the find of the Australians was Keith Miller, who subsequently went on to become one of the greatest Test all-rounders. He, and the Manager of the 1945 side, Keith Johnson, joined Lindsay Hassett in the 1948 'Invincibles' team that next played in England under the captaincy of Don Bradman. For other members, they either become prominent at First Class level or retired from cricket.

Sadly, of the original 21, only 11 survive to honour their teammates of the 1945 side, and to reflect upon their time together. Not only is this evening an opportunity for those present to remember their teammates, but also those cricketers with whom they played with or against in other Services matches.

It was to be some 48 years before another Australian Services side XI would play in England, and that occurred during July and August 1993. Whilst not of the same duration nor calibre, the team under the command of Colonel Denis Byrne and captained by Mark Campbell, acquitted themselves extremely well recording 5 wins, 3 draws and 5 losses against the various Services, County 2nds and Invitational Xis. Most certainly, all members of the 1993 side were honoured in representing their Defence Force the same as those of the two previous sides in 1919 and 1945.

The Australian Services Cricket Association is indeed honoured to be able to pay tribute to our cricketing forefathers of the 1945 side on the occasion of the 50th Anniversary, and also to those Services cricketers who have paid the supreme sacrifice for their country. Let us this evening reflect on the deeds of the distinguished team.

Lest We Forget.