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Protective Helmet Worn by Sunil Gavaskar



Date:
1987
Object Number:
M.87.33
Creator
Sunil Manohar Gavaskar (maker)
Material
fibreglass, foam
Size
height: 17 cm
Object name
helmet
Object category
sports equipment - cricket

Description

Home made protective headgear, white hard outer casing and yellow foam lining.
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Display caption

4.5 During the third Test of the notorious 1932-33 Bodyline series, Bert Oldfield was carried unconscious from the ground after fracturing his skull, luckily he recovered. However, players like Amiss, Brearley and Gavaskar often had to withstand the laughter and derision of the crowd when they took to the pitch with their improvised helmets. M.87.33 Home-made Helmet of Sunil Gavaskar, 1987 Gavaskar wore this re-purposed motorcycle helmet under a white sun-hat when playing for the Rest of the World v MCC in the 1987 Bicentenary Match. He scored 188, his first-century at Lord’s, in his last ever first-class match. Modern helmets are still being improved and adapted. After Stuart Broad’s black eye/broken nose incident caused by the ball passing through the face guard, the manufacturers narrowed the gap. However, this has caused different problems as batsmen now say their view of the ball is obscured. Another object not represented in the collection is Michael Carberry’s 21st century Ayrtek helmet, which drew comparisons to that of Darth Vader. However, its ability to deflect an impact rather than absorb it and an Air Cushion Impact System which inflates to create a perfect fit are a long way from colonial pith helmets and butchered bike helmets. Any information or suggestions about any of our exhibits is most welcome. Please ask a member of staff for a form or for contact details.
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Association:
Sunil Manohar Gavaskar (owner) 1987 - 1987