NEW DELHI: Adam Gilchrist‘s iconic performance in the 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup final is remembered not just for his breathtaking century, but also for a unique element of his preparation — a squash ball hidden inside his batting glove.
On April 28, 2007, at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados, Australia faced Sri Lanka in the final of the tournament.
Australia were aiming for a third consecutive World Cup title, and Gilchrist played a key role in making it happen.
Opening the batting for Australia, Gilchrist unleashed an extraordinary display of power and precision, smashing 149 runs off just 104 balls.
His explosive knock was laced with 13 fours and 8 sixes, and it was the cornerstone of Australia’s imposing total of 281 in a rain-shortened 38-over contest.
However, what most people didn’t know at the time was that Gilchrist had a squash ball tucked inside his left glove during the innings.
After the match, when asked about his exceptional form, Gilchrist revealed the secret.
The squash ball was placed in his glove on the advice of his batting coach and mentor, Bob Meuleman, who had suggested it to help Gilchrist maintain a better grip on the bat and keep his hand from closing too early while playing shots.
Quick Singles – Adam Gilchrist and the squash ball in the glove
This small adjustment gave him more control and freedom to execute his shots, especially against fast bowlers.
Gilchrist’s century in the final remains one of the finest innings in World Cup history, and Australia went on to win the match by 53 runs (D/L method), securing their third consecutive World Cup title.
The story of the squash ball became legendary, adding an interesting layer to Gilchrist’s already outstanding achievement, and highlighting how a small tweak can lead to greatness on the world stage.