2 years ago
My granddad has a unique place in cricket history. Jack Stackpoole was born in a Cobb and Co coach, in Jundah, QLD to the daughter of a bookkeeper and a jackeroo from Milo Station - one of Queensland's largest sheep stations.
Sheldon Stackpoole
Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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My granddad has a unique place in cricket history. Jack Stackpoole was born in a Cobb and Co coach, in Jundah, QLD to the daughter of a bookkeeper and a jackeroo from Milo Station - one of Queensland's largest sheep stations.
Growing up, while his Dad searched for itinerant work, Jack spent time in Port Lincoln and the Adelaide Hills.
Jack eventually found his way back to Queensland and played first grade cricket for Toombul as a pace bowler. His three games for Queensland may have amounted to little if it wasn't for “that ball”.
In January 1940, playing for Queensland against South Australia, Jack found himself at the top of his long run, as Don Bradman strode to the crease! Without a doubt, even the most devoted Queensland supporter at the Gabba that day, was there to see the 31-year-old phenomenon score an inevitable century, belting Queensland bowlers to all parts of the ground.
Jack gathered himself, the bloke taking strike had already amassed a record 452 not out against Queensland. “Here goes” he thought and began his run to the wicket. Jack thundered in, leapt and served up the best full ball he could muster. In slow motion, he watched as The Don surprisingly misqueued the ball in the air straight to short mid-wicket. OUT! A golden duck for the legend! One of only two in his celebrated first-class career.
The spectators booed as Bradman left the field. Ever the humble man, my granddad Jack, went back to the top of his mark, and readied himself for the next batsman. He went on to take 6-72.
Not long after, Jack departed for Milne Bay to take on the Japanese in World War 2.
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