OTD| Former Australian fast bowler Shaun Tait was born in 1983

Shaun Tait has been one of the finest pacers for Australia, with a muscular and meaty build, massive shoulders, and a slinging action to accompany a quick run-up. Tait possessed all of the necessary characteristics to be one of the most feared quicks of his day. Unfortunately, he was unable to make the same effect as Jeff Thompson or Shoaib Akhtar. 

His ability to take wickets at a relatively low economy was clear from the start, and he was swiftly given a chance into the famous Australian Cricket Academy. His outstanding record continued into the following season, earning him a position in the Australia A team and national squad, as well as the Bradman Young Cricketer of the Year award in 2004. 

Despite being a developing player on the Lanka tour, he impressed captain Ricky Ponting by bouncing him in the nets. This opportunity proved to be an inspiration for the young guy, as Ponting and the selectors identified him as a possible spearhead of the pace attack in the future.

Also read: Australian opener Michael Slater was born today in 1970

Tait: A Speedster extraordinaire

Tait made his debut in the 2005 Ashes tour, he was chosen ahead of Jason Gillespie for two tests, but his unusual style and drive for maximum speed caused him to damage himself and require shoulder surgery. Making a comeback, he contributed significantly to Australia’s World Cup victory in 2007. Finished second on the list of wicket-takers, scooping up 23 at an average of 20.30. 

He was an important part of Australia’s 2011 World Cup campaign, but after their early elimination, he decided to retire from ODIs to remain ready for the game’s shortest format. In addition, the former bowler also retired from Test cricket in 2009. In March 2017, Tait announced his retirement from all forms of cricket. 

The 40-year-old speedster was engaged as a bowling consultant for the Afghanistan national cricket squad. He stepped down from his position at the end of the year, and in February 2022, he was appointed as the bowling coach of the Pakistan national cricket team for one year.