Famously remembered for his jaw-dropping catch at the SCG during the West Indies-Australia ODI, John Dyson was a gritty opener who represented Australia during a tough phase when their top order was vulnerable. Equally adept in both formats of the game, Dyson couldn't quite replicate his First-class numbers in the international arena though he did have his share of moments on the big stage. Right from his First-class debut in 1975, Dyson impressed everyone with his sound technique and unflappable temperament. Despite making his international debut in 1977, he didn't get a long run until 1981 when he also registered his maiden Test ton. The 1981-82 season was productive as both his Test centuries - also Ashes hundreds, came during this space. Thereafter, his career got hindered after participating in two rebel tours of South Africa.

A soccer player before his entry to cricket, Dyson was an excellent fielder to go with his batting skills. Probably it has a lot to do with his goalkeeping skills that he had in soccer. The catch that shot him to fame was an extraordinary take. The New South Wales man took to coaching after his cricketing career with Sri Lanka and West Indies being the teams that he was associated with. Dyson had the components to be a successful international cricketer but for a variety of reasons, that never really transpired. Probably the decision to tour South Africa hurt him the most but even otherwise, form was an issue during the 1984-85 season when he struggled to get himself going. Nevertheless, he was a great figure in the Australian domestic circuit, churning out over 10000 First-class runs at a healthy average. Even his List A numbers were valuable.

By Hariprasad Sadanandan