Brian Hastings

Brian learnt his early cricket by playing ‘Test’ matches with his brothers on a 10x4 metre concrete and trellis area at the front of their Wellington house. He also improved his eye–ball coordination by throwing a golf ball at the wall and trying to hit it with a cricket stump on return.

At Wellington College he excelled in cricket, rugby, basketball and athletics, with some predicting he might be an All Black. While still at school he played in the Wellington Brabin Cup team, already noted for his confidence, competitiveness and strong drive.

Hasto made his first-class debut for Wellington at 17, played one season for Central Districts, then transferred to Canterbury for work. Brian was an elegant, fluent right-handed batsman, a delightful timer of the ball, characterised by firm driving and crisp square-cutting, and always quick to hook or clip pace bowlers off his legs. He was a fine fielder, outstanding at gully with quick reactions and sure hands. He was a key member of the strong West Christchurch Club, later Burnside West University, playing for 21 years in 147 matches, scoring nearly 7,500 runs with 13 centuries and a top score of 153. He remains the second-highest run scorer in the club’s history. As an administrator he helped secure its future by supporting the move from Hagley Oval to Burnside Park, creating opportunities for university and school-aged players.

In total Brian played 163 first-class games, scoring over 7,500 runs with 15 centuries and taking 112 catches. Eleven years after his debut he finally convinced the national selectors of his international class. In 1969 he debuted against the West Indies, scoring 62 not out in the Second Test to take New Zealand to their fifth Test victory, then 117 not out in the next match for the first of his four centuries. His 872 runs that season were the second-highest ever by a New Zealander, earning him the Redpath Cup.

From then until 1975 Brian was a fixture in the New Zealand top order. Highlights included vital contributions in New Zealand’s first Test victories over Pakistan (1969) and Australia (1974), centuries in the West Indies and at the Basin Reserve, and a world-record tenth-wicket partnership of 151 with Richard Collinge against Pakistan in 1973. That feat still ranks third in Test history. Across 31 Tests he scored more than 1,500 valuable runs, until a knee injury against India in 1976 ended his career.

Cricket writer Dick Brittenden observed: “It was of particular significance that Brian played at least a dozen innings which were not just good – they were of absolute vital importance. Time and again he played his best cricket when it was most needed.” Those who saw him recall the style, spirit and colour of his cricket.

Brian had a strong moral compass, shown in both business and cricket. He was an ICC Match Referee in 10 Tests and 18 ODIs, and served two terms as President of Canterbury Cricket. For his considerable contribution he was awarded honorary membership of NZC. His was an innings truly well played.

Brian Hastings (1940–2024)
Willower since 1994