1929: Hammond dominates South Africa before rain spoils (Edgbaston)

The first Test of the 1929 series between England and South Africa at Edgbaston ended in a draw, with rain interruptions playing a major role.

England dominated the match with the bat, scoring 245 in the first innings and 308 for 4 the the second innings. Wally Hammond was the standout performer, scoring unbeaten century (138 not out). Herbert Sutcliffe posted 114.

South Africa took a narrow lead in the first innings being bowled out for 250, with Maurice Tate and Harold Larwood sharing 8 wickets. Bob Catterall top-scored with 98 in South Africa’s second innings, which reached 171-1 before time ran out. 

Despite a promising start, the match never recovered from the delays, and both sides settled for a draw in what was South Africa’s first Test appearance at Edgbaston.

England 1st Innings – 245 all out

• Patsy Hendren – 70
• Herbert Sutcliffe – 26
• Tom Killick – 31
• Arthur Ochse – 4/79
• Denijs Morkel – 3/40
• Neville Quinn – 2/62  

South Africa 1st Innings – 250 all out

• Bruce Mitchell – 88
• Bob Catterall – 67
• Harold Larwood – 5/57
• Maurice Tate – 3/65
• Percy Fender – 2/64  

England 2nd Innings – 308/4 declared

• Wally Hammond – 138*
• Herbert Sutcliffe – 114
• Arthur Ochse – 2/88
• Denijs Morkel – 1/54
• Neville Quinn – 1/55  

South Africa 2nd Innings – 171/1

• Bob Catterall – 98
• Bruce Mitchell – 61*
• Percy Fender – 1/55

June 1929