Frank Misson, the former Australian and New South Wales fast bowler, passed away at the age of 85. Misson represented Australia in five Tests, during the 1960-61 series against the West Indies and the 1961 Ashes tour to England. Unfortunately, his promising Test career was cut short by an Achilles injury. Over the course of his brief career, he took 16 Test wickets at an average of 38.50, with a best performance of 4 for 58 against the West Indies in Melbourne.
In addition to his international career, Misson played 71 first-class matches, primarily for New South Wales, amassing 177 wickets at an average of 31.13. His career spanned from 1958 to 1964. Despite its brevity, his contributions to Australian cricket were significant, both on and off the field.
Misson’s athletic prowess was evident from a young age. He trained with the renowned Australian athletics coach Percy Cerutty, who famously guided Herb Elliott to Olympic gold in the 1500m at the 1960 Rome Olympics. This background in fitness helped Misson excel in cricket, debuting with six wickets for New South Wales in the Sheffield Shield at the age of 20.
In the 1959-60 season, Misson was selected for an Australian second XI that toured New Zealand, where he took an impressive 17 wickets at an average of 12.47. The following summer, he made his Test debut against the West Indies in Melbourne, a match that followed the iconic tied Test in Brisbane.
Misson’s dedication to fitness was legendary. Former Australian captain Ian Chappell recalled his strict training regimen during the 1961 Ashes tour, where Misson continued to train on the ship to England. Despite playful obstacles set by his teammates, Misson remained committed to his fitness.
An Achilles injury during the Ashes tour ended his international career prematurely. Cricket NSW chief executive Lee Germon praised Misson’s dedication, noting that his focus on fitness was ahead of its time. Misson’s fitness legacy continued through his son, David Misson, who later served as the fitness advisor for the Australia men’s team.
