Charles John Eady

Charles Eady was a large, impressive man who performed efficiently for Tasmania as an all-rounder for two decades, but will always be remembered for his innings of 566 in 473 minutes.

He made it in a total of 911 at Hobart in March and April 1902, for Break-O’-Day against Wellington. Eady hit 13 fives and 68 fours, and added 429 for the seventh wicket with W. Abbott, who made 143. Play was spread over four afternoons while Eady achieved this, which remains the highest score in club cricket anywhere in the world.

He was a tremendous hitter of the ball, but this should not be allowed to overshadow his skill as a bowler. He headed the Southern Tasmanian averages four times as a batsman – but 12 times as bowler.

In 1905-06 he took all ten wickets for 42 runs for South Hobart against East Hobart.

Eady only toured England once – with the 1896 Australians – but ill health prevented him showing his best and he made only 290 runs at 13.18 and took 16 wickets at 25.50. His reputation was secure in his feats at home.

Eady, who stood over 6 feet tall and weighed 15 stone, was the first Australian to score a century in each innings of a first-class match, a feat he accomplished in 1894-95 when he made 116 and 112 not out against Victoria at Hobart.