Ex-NZ Test batsman John F. Reid dies

WELLINGTON: John Fulton Reid, who scored six centuries in 19 Tests for New Zealand including 108 in a famous win over Australia, has died at the age of 64.

His death after a long illness was confirmed on Tuesday by New Zealand Cricket (NZC).

Reid’s century against Australia at the Gabba in November, 1985 was instrumental in New Zealand’s win by an innings of 41 runs. He shared a then-record 225-run partnership with Martin Crowe (188) for the third wicket which helped New Zealand to 553-7 in its only innings.

Richard Hadlee took 9-52 in Australia’s first innings and 6-71 in the second to secure the win.

Reid was an elegant left-hander known for his skill against spin bowling and the Brisbane innings, on a fast, bouncy pitch, proved his ability against pace.

In a Test career that ran from 1979 to 1986 the left-hander scored 1,296 runs at an average of 46. His conversion rate of half centuries to centuries was 75 percent six from eight.

Reid played in an essentially amateur New Zealand team but said it possessed a professional mindset. Reid’s death follows the death in October of his more famous namesake, former New Zealand captain John Richard Reid.