Sir Don Bradman’s Baggy Green Sells For Staggering $311,000

Dec 5, 2024

Imagine owning a piece of cricket history so iconic that it tells tales of a bygone era. That’s exactly what one lucky bidder accomplished by purchasing a “baggy green” cap worn by legendary Sir Don Bradman for a jaw-dropping A$479,700 (about $311,000). This isn’t just a cap—it’s a piece of cricketing folklore.

The Story Behind the Cap

This cap isn’t just about its sun-faded fabric or a few insect bites; it’s about the stories it holds. Bradman wore it during India’s first tour of Australia as an independent nation. The 1947-48 series was a spectacle, and Bradman was its star performer.

The legend amassed 715 runs across six innings during the five-Test series, averaging an almost unimaginable 178.75. Oh, and did I mention he also became the first Australian to score 100 first-class centuries during that tour? The guy was simply unstoppable.

Bradman didn’t just wear the cap; he made history with it. After the series, he handed it to India’s team manager, Pankaj “Peter” Gupta. Gupta then passed it on to wicketkeeper PK Sen. That journey alone makes the cap priceless.

Auction Fever: Setting Records Again

The iconic cap, which had been on display at the Bradman Museum in Bowral since 2010, was recently put up for auction. Estimated to sell for A$300,000 to A$400,000, it smashed expectations, going under the hammer for A$479,700.

What’s more impressive? It’s not even the most expensive Don Bradman memorabilia. His first Test cap from 1928 sold for A$450,000 in 2020. And if you’re wondering about the highest-priced cap, Shane Warne’s baggy green tops the chart, fetching over A$1 million in 2020 to aid bushfire relief efforts.

Bradman’s Legacy: Beyond Numbers

Don Bradman’s stats read like a cricket fan’s dream. In 52 Tests, he averaged an unthinkable 99.94—nearly 40 runs higher than anyone else with a minimum of 20 innings. But beyond the numbers, Bradman is revered for his role as a leader and a symbol of hope during challenging times in Australia.

The cap sold this week isn’t just a collector’s item; it’s a reminder of a golden era in cricket. It’s a connection to a man who redefined the game and set benchmarks that still feel untouchable.

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