Order of Australia for test cricketer

Norman Clifford O'Neill, of Phegans Bay, has received an Order of Australia for his cricket achievements.

Mr O'Neill played 42 tests representing Australia on tours to New Zealand in 1966 and 1967, England in 1961 and 1964, the West Indies in 1964, India in 1959 and 1964, and Pakistan in 1959.

He scored 2779 international runs at an average of 45.55 and scored a century against every cricketing nation except South Africa.

He just fell short of a century against South Africa on several occasions.

He also represented NSW and scored 13 859 first class runs at an average of 50.95.

Mr O'Neill said: "I'm delighted with the recognition.

"I feel very honoured."

"I was an aggressive batsman.

"I played my strokes, especially cover drives and square cuts.

"I wanted to get on with the job.

"I loved playing for my country.

"We didn't think about the little play - it was a joy just to be playing."

Mr O'Neill said that it was difficult being away from his wife and two young children when on long tours that lasted eight and a half months.

"It cost a fortune in telephone calls to home, but in England in 1964 I arranged for my wife to join me on tour for the last six weeks."

Mr O'Neill conducted a cricket coaching school in Western Australia between 1971 and 1980 for indigenous and underprivileged children.

He described the experience as "very rewarding".

Con Orfanos, June 4.