Hughes inducted in to Australian Cricket Hall of Fame

Legendary Australian and Victorian fast bowler Merv Hughes has been inducted in to the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame for his services to Australian cricket.

Hughes is the second former player inducted this summer - and 56th inductee overall - after 1868 Aboriginal tour champion Johnny Mullagh.

A key figure in Australia’s return to the top of Test cricket rankings, Hughes’ career spanned 53 Tests and 33 ODIs from 1985-1994.

He claimed 212 Test wickets at an average of 28.38.

“To be inducted has blown me away,” Hughes said.

“To come in alongside some of the names that are in there is overwhelming and I’m a little bit emotional.

Hughes was a cult hero throughout his international career, his famous moustache making him one of the most recognisable and popular Australian cricketers of his era.

Hughes claimed his career best figures of 8-87 against the West Indies at the WACA in 1988, claiming a hat-trick split over two innings and three separate overs.

“I didn’t realise I was on a hat-trick,” Hughes said.

“To go out and get a wicket, Gordon Greenidge, first ball is a huge feather in your cap.

“I was a little bit excited about that, pumped up about the situation of the game and didn’t find out for a couple of overs that I’d taken a hat-trick.”

A third person will be inducted to the Hall of Fame later this week.

IMAGE: Cricket Australia.