Cricket has become a lucrative market, with contemporary players commanding substantial sums. In this era, cricketers can secure a comfortable living solely by associating with the sport. Therefore, it would be astonishing to witness an international cricketer in India resorting to driving a taxi for sustenance.
In such circumstances, the sight of a former player, especially one over 70 years old, would undoubtedly evoke sympathy from fans, former teammates, and charitable organisations. Media outlets would likely seize upon the narrative, lamenting the plight of a once-great player now reduced to driving a taxi. However, this scenario would be highly unlikely in New Zealand.
A few years ago, a legendary player, after whom the Basin Reserve pavilion is named, participated in the inauguration of the eponymous pavilion. After two hours, he left the grounds to drive a taxi.
It might come as a surprise to some that former New Zealand fast bowler Ewen Chatfield is driving a taxi to earn a living in an era where cricketers often earn substantial sums.
When asked about his choice of profession, Chatfield explained, “I’m at a point in my life where finding employment is challenging. However, driving a taxi offers flexibility; I can choose my own hours, working all day or just when I prefer. This allows me to enjoy personal interests, like watching cricket, making it a convenient job for my current situation.”
Ewen Chatfield, renowned for his participation in the 1979, 1983, and 1987 Cricket World Cups representing New Zealand, was an exceptional ODI bowler. His precision with line and length effectively restricted batsmen from playing freely. Throughout his ODI career, Chatfield secured 140 wickets in 114 matches, boasting an impressive economy rate of 3.57, cementing his place as one of the most successful bowlers in cricketing history. In his Test debut 45 years ago, Chatfield suffered a life-threatening injury from a bouncer. Despite this setback, he went on to participate in 43 Test matches, claiming 123 wickets.
Chatfield last played on Indian soil during the 1987 World Cup. This match was notable for Chetan Sharma’s hat-trick and Sunil Gavaskar’s rapid century. Indian fans particularly remember Chatfield for conceding 21 runs to Gavaskar in a single over during that match.
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