Warne vs Ambrose 2003

Lore & Background

McGrath was a member of the Australian team that won three consecutive World Cup trophies (1999, 2003, 2007). In the 2003 final, he took the winning wicket of Zaheer Khan. He also won the 2006 ICC Champions Trophy. He is the third-most successful fast bowler in Test history, behind James Anderson and Stuart Broad, and holds the record for most wickets (71) in the Cricket World Cup.

In Their Own Story

The sun beats down on the Melbourne Cricket Ground, dust rising from the pitch as the fast bowler begins his run-up. The crowd holds its breath, sensing the duel about to unfold. The leg-spinner stands at the other end, eyes fixed on the approaching threat, knowing that a single line of flight could change the game's narrative.

Reader's Guide

McGrath relied on unerring accuracy, subtle seam movement, and a high arm action. His height (195 cm) allowed him to extract extra bounce. He was one of the most economical and successful fast bowlers of his time.

Did You Know?

• McGrath took 26 wickets in the 2007 World Cup and was named player of the tournament.
• He announced his retirement from Test cricket on 23 December 2006.
• McGrath is the director of the MRF Pace Foundation in Chennai.
• He founded the McGrath Foundation with his late first wife, Jane.