IAN ELLIS FISHER
5th May, 1939-25th August 2025
As an engineering graduate in 1957, Ian Fisher attended Sydney University’s pre season cricket training. Ian had an imposing record in junior cricket in Grafton and abundant natural athletic ability. However the university selectors failed to recognise the potential and he was not graded.
And so, for over a decade Ian’s cricket career blossomed elsewhere, largely at the Glebe and Sydney Clubs where he captained first grade for three seasons. He became highly respected in the Grade competition as an aggressive left hand batsman.
For the 1969-70 season, Sydney University Cricket Club was searching for a first grade captain and Ian accepted the invitation to become first grade captain, giving him the most influential on-field position in the Club. He immediately brought a renewed sense of purpose and direction to Sydney University cricket.
In addition to leading first grade, he took a keen interest in other grades with support to all lower grade captains.
In successive seasons on uncovered pitches Fish hit 851, 713, 537 and 539 runs. He became (for a time) the Club’s greatest run scorer in first grade and in Sydney Grade Cricket he scored 6,731 runs at an average of 31.6 with 13 centuries. His centuries for Sydney University often came when most needed. Against Randwick in 1973 his 119 not out included 97 in even time after lunch and his 100 not out in 1974 was against a Northern District attack that included 3 State players and was made in even time. His second 50 required only 17 balls.
Despite his First Grade success, the NSW selectors never called upon him, a mystifying denial of his ability and potential. It is ironic that he later served as a NSW selector for 5 years after his retirement from playing, contributing to the strength of the State side.
The umpires seemed to regard his talents more highly as in 1970-71, he was runner up in the Sydney Morning Herald player of the year, voted by umpires and in the next season, he finished third.
Whether as captain or administrator, Ian Fisher was often opinionated but always worth listening to.
It would have been fitting if he had led University’s First Grade into semi-finals. Twice he came close, claiming 5th place.
When the Club was threatened with demotion from the Sydney Grade Competition in 1997, Ian Fisher was at his uncompromising best, When the Club most needed him, he returned to play a dominant part in its retention and in the resurgence of playing success. He continued uncompromising committee support and as Chairman of Selectors and coaching the Club’s first Green Shield side.
Ian Fisher is undoubtedly one of the most outstanding cricketers to have played for Sydney University Cricket Club.
Ian Fisher’s other sporting love was tennis which he played throughout his life.
Ian Foulsham