Cricket Legend Sir Donald Bradman’s ‘Baggy Green’ Cap Sells for $310,000 USD at Auction

Sir Donald Bradman’s baggy green, worn by him during the 1947-48 series against India, in Australia © Bonhams

BY ALBERT CHEN

A cricket cap worn by Sir Donald Bradman, widely regarded as the greatest batsman in cricket history, sold for AU$479,700 ($310,719 USD) at an auction held by Bonhams Sydney on December 3. The iconic “baggy green” cap, worn by Bradman during the 1947-48 Test series against India, exceeded its pre-auction estimate of AU$300,000 to AU$400,000 ($194,427 to $259,238 USD).

The cap’s historical significance lies in its connection to Bradman’s remarkable career, including his milestone achievement during the series when he became the first Australian cricketer to score 100 first-class centuries. Bradman, who maintained a record-breaking Test batting average of 99.94, is celebrated as a global icon of cricket. Following his death in 2001 at the age of 92, Bradman was honored with a state funeral, reflecting his profound impact on the sport and Australian culture.

The baggy green cap had been on loan to the Bradman Museum in Bowral, Bradman’s hometown, since 2010. It was originally gifted by Bradman to Pankaj “Peter” Gupta, the manager of the visiting Indian team, who then passed it to Indian wicketkeeper PK Sen. Sen, the first Bengali cricketer to play for India, later sold the cap, and it was acquired by its previous owner in 2003.

The 1947-48 series, Bradman’s last in Australia, marked India’s inaugural cricket tour of the country and came just months after India gained independence.

The auction attracted significant interest from cricket enthusiasts and collectors. Merryn Schriever, Managing Director of Bonhams Australia, noted the “brisk and enthusiastic bidding” during the event, which included online and in-person participants. She confirmed that the cap was purchased by a private collector who intends to keep it in Australia.

Alex Clark, Senior Specialist at Bonhams Melbourne, highlighted the cap’s dual significance: its role in Bradman’s storied cricketing legacy and its connection to India’s cricketing history. “This very special baggy green has been part of cricket and sporting heritage for decades and has now found a new home,” he said.

BY ALBERT CHEN

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