Lives in Cricket No 42 - Frank and George Mann

97 MCC in South Africa 1948/49 the runs at all costs, and his intelligent arrangement of the batting order had been a major factor in England’s exciting win. Once back in England, Brigadier Green submitted his manager’s report to MCC and sent George a copy. It read: The success of the tour both on and off the field has, I think, been acknowledged and it is gratifying to know from South Africans that the cricket played was much appreciated. Every game the gate record was broken and, as in England now, the increase in women and children amongst the spectators was most marked. This is a good augury for the future of the game in South Africa. The captaincy of George Mann was, in my view, the outstanding feature of the tour. There is no doubt as to his leadership and his example on the field, however hot or late in the day, could not be faulted. In addition as the tour progressed he gained confidence and experience and so the placing of his field and the use of his bowlers was first- class. In the Third and Fifth Tests he played great innings as we were in a bad position when he had to bat. If he could play the Selectors should not have far to look for their England captain. 51 The side backed up their skipper excellently in batting, bowling, and fielding, especially the latter. I would say the combination of Mann’s leadership and the team’s fitness and ability to respond to his demands, were the reason for the good results. It has been a very happy tour because the players have all worked together so well and without any friction, and also because the South African people, without exception, did everything in their power to make us happy, feel at home and become our friends. It will be a long time, if ever, before we forget the kindness of the South African people and their lovely sunny country. 51 R.J.Hayter’s report on the tour in Wisden did not reach these fulsome levels, but he did report his captaincy as ‘ideal, zealous to a degree and considerate in all things at all times.’ M.A.Green sent this report – his judgement less shaky than his typing – to MCC on the South Africa tour of 1948/49, awarding Frank full marks.