Each week we’ll be asking a prominent cricket person a series of six questions. Get to know your fellow cricket lovers better, and catch up on what these people are doing in cricket all over the country and the world.
Iain O’Brien played 22 test matches, 10 ODIs, and 4 T20Is for New Zealand between 2005 and 2009. He was a right arm seamer that was quicker than he looked, taking 73 test wickets with a best of 6/75. He has been living in the UK since his retirement and has been a regular featured guest and columnist on ESPNCricinfo.
Here’s Iain’s answers to the #SixHitter questions.
1.Tell us how you got involved in Cricket, what’s your role/association now?
Loved playing, played all sports I could get my hands on as a kid. Was surrounded by grounds, clubs, beach, swimming pool – so always loved playing sport. I think I’ve stopped playing, I’m still not sure. Body hurts too much, but I still love playing. But a little bit of coaching here and there now. And still a fan.
2. Describe yourself in three words
Eager, Proud, Broken.
3. What is your earliest cricket memory?
Not quite making the toilet having stood in the field for ages & learning to ride a bike while waiting to bat.
NAPIER, NEW ZEALAND – DECEMBER 13: Iain O’Brien of New Zealand bowls during day three of the Third Test match between New Zealand and Pakistan at McLean Park on December 13, 2009 in Napier, New Zealand. (Photo by Hannah Peters/Getty Images)
4. What is your favourite cricket moment of all time?
Can’t work out if it’s hitting Warne for 4 (back over his head) in my first Test. Hitting Ntini for my one and only Test 6. Achieving the second longest pair in Test cricket? Or my first Test wicket with Mum, Dad, Nan, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, best mate in the crowd
5. What is the one development you would like to see in domestic cricket, and in international cricket?
Bring back big bats! Stop playing around with inconsequential things, deal with the big issues. Fixing, drugs, funding.
6. Where do see cricket in the USA in 10 years’ time?
Hopefully the funding the USA is getting is matched to other growing nations. Giving more competition, and competitions for all.
