A historic cricket artifact, a "baggy green" cap worn by legendary Australian batsman Sir Don Bradman, is set to go under the hammer in Sydney on Tuesday. The cap, donned during the 1947-48 series against India, is expected to fetch between $195,000 and $260,000 USD, according to auction house Bonhams.
This cap holds immense historical significance, as it was worn by Bradman during a landmark tour that saw India's first Tests on foreign soil post-independence. Bradman's performance in the series was extraordinary, amassing 715 runs in six innings at an average of 178.75, including three centuries and a double hundred.
Despite visible wear—including fading, insect damage, and a torn peak—the cap is anticipated to attract significant interest due to Bradman's unmatched cricket legacy. With a Test batting average of 99.94, Bradman is widely regarded as the greatest cricketer of all time.
This auction follows notable sales of other Bradman memorabilia, including a baggy green from his 1928 Test debut, which fetched $290,000 USD in 2020. However, this is eclipsed by the $650,000 USD paid for Shane Warne's baggy green in 2020, sold to raise funds for Australian bushfire victims.
Bradman passed away in 2001 at the age of 92, leaving behind an unparalleled legacy in cricketing history.
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