John Dyson’s outfield catch at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in 1982, running backwards over the head at a 45- degree angle to the ground will probably be remembered as the “catch of the century” for a long time in cricketing history.
Dyson, a former soccer player, was a determined opening batsman in the Australian batting line-up. Also productive for the New South Wales, his century at Headingley on the 1981 England tour can be termed as one of the best knocks of his career. Dyson stood up against the tall and fiery West Indian bowlers, playing some good seasons for Australia. However, his international career ended in 1984 and Dyson took up coaching responsibilities.
Despite lack of experience in coaching, Dyson was given charge of the Sri Lankan team in 2003 but was soon replaced by Tom Moody within a couple of years. He then moved to coach the West Indies side in 2007, where his bittersweet tryst with success continued that included player-board disputes, embarrassing losses for the team and a weakened side, thus leading to his sacking in August 2009.
