Page "Percy Chapman" Paragraph 20

As the first four matches of the series were drawn, the final Test, played at The Oval, was decisive.

Aware that England had beaten Australia only once in 19 matches, the selectors made several changes to the team ; Chapman, at the time fourth in the national batting averages, replaced Carr as captain.

This decision was controversial ; the press favoured Carr, particularly as Chapman was young, unproven as captain and not fully established in the team.

When the match began on 14 August, Chapman won the toss and decided that England should bat first.

When it was his turn to bat, Chapman was given a good reception by the crowd.

During his innings, Wisden noted, he " hit out in vigorous fashion ", but once he was dismissed for 49, the remaining batsmen were out quickly, leaving England with a disappointing total of 280.

Australia replied with 302.

On a pitch affected by rain, England then scored 436, mainly because of a large partnership between opening batsmen Jack Hobbs and Herbert Sutcliffe.

Australia needed to score 415 to win, which was unlikely given the condition of the pitch.

The team were bowled out for 125, and at least one of Chapman's tactical decisions resulted in Australia losing a wicket.

Wisden reported that " not a catch was missed nor was a run given away, the whole England side rising gallantly to the occasion.

Naturally a scene of tremendous enthusiasm occurred at the end, the crowd swarming in thousands in front of the pavilion, and loudly cheering the players, both English and Australian.

" The correspondent also commented " " Chapman ... despite lack of experience in leading a first-class team in the field, turned out a very happy nomination for the post of captain, the young amateur, for the most part, managing his bowling with excellent judgement, and in two or three things he did, showing distinct imagination.

" Throughout the match, Chapman chose to follow his own tactics rather than rely on the veteran players in the team for advice.

In the series, Chapman scored 175 runs at 58. 33.