Graham Dowling was born in Christchurch on 4 March 1937. He was a right handed opening who made his first class debut for Otago at the age of 21. He made his Test debut against South Africa in 1961.
He played 39 Tests, scoring 2,306 runs at an average of 31.16. His highest Test score was 239 against India in 1968, which helped New Zealand achieve their first-ever series victory against India.
Dowling captained the New Zealand cricket team in 19 Test matches. He led New Zealand to its first ever win over India. His leadership was marked by a deep understanding of the game and decisive decision making.
He lost the middle finger of his left hand due to amputation after suffering an injury whilst keeping wickets on the tour to Australia in 1970.