Canberra, Aug 29: A rare baggy green cap worn by Sir Donald Bradman during the 1946–47 Ashes has been acquired by the National Museum of Australia for AU$438,500 (approx. US$286,700), with the federal government covering half the cost.
The cap, one of only 11 known to exist, was worn by Bradman when he captained Australia in the first post-war series against England. The hosts dominated the five-Test contest 3-0, a triumph that set the stage for the legendary 1948 “Invincibles” tour, where Australia went unbeaten in England.
Arts Minister Tony Burke described the purchase as a significant moment for the nation’s cultural heritage. “You’d be hard-pressed to meet an Australian who hasn’t heard of the great Donald Bradman, arguably the greatest cricketer of all time. To have one of his iconic baggy greens on display ensures future generations can connect with both our sporting and cultural history,” he said.
National Museum director Katherine McMahon echoed the sentiment, calling the cap “a national treasure.” “Sir Donald’s baggy green marks the life of Australia’s most celebrated batsman and reflects a time when sporting heroes gave Australians hope after the heartbreak of the Second World War,” she noted.
The newly acquired artefact joins the museum’s Landmarks gallery, which showcases defining chapters of Australian history. Another of Bradman’s baggy greens is held at the Australian Sports Museum, while the remaining nine are privately owned. (Agencies)
