A Brief History of Cricket Down Under

The intimidating Australian home environment of the 1980s; Australia's fast-bowling attack, hostile crowds and difficult wickets.

Dramatic, close finishes from 1980s international cricket, including matches that went down to the final moments.

Unusual and unexpected incidents from 1980s cricket — moments that seemed almost unbelievable after more than a century of international cricket.

The explosion of fast bowling: Australia's older pace stars and the legendary West Indies four-man pace attack.

Exceptional personalities and players who became cricket icons through more than simply statistics.

The transformation of limited-overs cricket and the development of ODI cricket as a major form of the game.

The great run-scorers of the decade and the batsmen who dominated attacks.

Reverse swing, slow bowling, bat technology and team culture — innovations that gave teams an advantage.

The increasingly competitive and professional nature of international cricket in the 1980s.

The captains and leadership styles that shaped teams during the decade.

Australia vs New Zealand, MCG, 1 February 1981 — Trevor Chappell's infamous underarm delivery to Brian McKechnie.