Lives in Cricket No 32 - Eric Rowan

48 Nourse with 621 at 69.00 and Bruce Mitchell with 597 runs at 66.33. The remainder of the batting struggled with the newer men failing to make an impact. In South African Cricket 1947- 1960 , Brian Bassano wrote, ‘It seemed a mistake had been made in omitting Rowan from the team as his confidence might have been invaluable. The side never had a settled opening pair and the attempt to groom D.V. Dyer was unsuccessful.’ Dyer opened the innings in three Tests, but could only average 16. There was some joy for the Rowan family as Athol was selected and played in all five Tests. While he bowled steadily his twelve wickets came at the expensive average of 55.91. His injured knee had to be carefully managed throughout and his selection had been a risk as he had actually played in the trial matches wearing a leg iron to protect it. Athol’s quiet and good-humoured attitude was very different from his older brother’s abrasive approach. Following the 1947 tour it was obvious there were places available in the South African team for the next series, to be played against England at home in 1948/49. During the 1947/48 summer Eric’s form was much improved, making 445 runs at 49.44. He passed the hundred only once with a superb 141 against Natal, but he batted consistently well and was convinced he could regain his place in the Test team next summer. Lost Years