Ron Draper, the oldest living Test cricketer, died in Gqeberha at 98 years old. He played two Tests for South Africa in 1950 against Australia and had a successful first-class career, including being the first player to score two centuries in a Currie Cup match. His death was confirmed on February 28, 2025, and Neil Harvey now holds the title of oldest living Test cricketer at 96.

Ron Draper, the oldest living Test cricketer, passed away in Gqeberha, South Africa, at the age of 98 years and 63 days, as confirmed by his family. Draper was a notable top-order batsman and sometimes wicketkeeper, participating in two Tests for South Africa against Australia in 1950. Following his passing, Neil Harvey, aged 96, assumes the title of the oldest living Test cricketer.

Draper was born on December 24, 1926. He made a spectacular start to his career, scoring a century during his first-class debut on his 19th birthday for Eastern Province. Though he struggled in his Test matches, he had significant successes in first-class cricket, achieving a batting average of 41.64 before retiring in 1960. He notably became the first player to score two centuries in a single Currie Cup match.

Draper died in a retirement home in Gqeberha on a Tuesday, with his son-in-law Neil Thomson confirming the news on Friday. His legacy in cricket remains significant, being part of a very select group of players who have achieved recognition in both Test and first-class cricket.

Ron Draper, a prominent figure in South African cricket, leaves behind a rich legacy as the oldest Test cricketer at the time of his death. His contributions to the game, particularly in first-class matches, are commemorated, highlighting a career filled with remarkable achievements. As the cricket community mourns his loss, his memory will continue to inspire future generations of players.

Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com