LIves in Cricket No 31 - Walter Robins

65 to Allen’s demands when Queensland needed 500 runs to win on the last day and he bowled 17 overs, compared with only three in the first innings, taking four for 63. The First Test was due to start on 4 December and Allen sat down with his selection committee of Robins, Wyatt, Leyland and Hammond to pick the best eleven: ‘Choosing the team was not easy, but after much argument I got the side I wanted. Robbie was splendid and backed me all the way.’ Robbie bowled 17 of England’s 85 eight-ball overs in the Australian first innings, conceding only 48 runs though without a wicket to show for his efforts. With Australia skittled out for 58 in their second innings England won by 322 runs. There was one change to the England team for the Second Test with Sims being brought in for Worthington after inspections of the wicket suggested more spin might be required and the damage to Robbie’s hand still restricted his ability to bowl using his normal grip and delivery for any length of time. In the event, Robbie was only required to bowl eight overs in the match and wasn’t needed to bat. Allen won the toss again and by the start of the third day England were 426-6 with Hammond not out 231. Before play commenced there had been heavy rain and Allen decided it was not the right time to continue batting and immediately declared. By 2.30 pm Australia were all out for 80 after only 24 overs with Voce and Allen taking seven of the wickets between them. With the wicket showing definite signs of improvement, Allen had to make a choice between asking Australia to follow on 346 runs behind, or bat again and hope to score To Australia with Gubby Robbie going out to bat with Maurice Leyland for MCC against An Australian XI at Sydney Cricket Ground in November 1936.