Cricketer Phil Carlson passes at 70

Former Queensland Country cricket captain Phil Carlson passed away Friday after a long illness.

He played two Tests for Australia against England in 1978-79 and was 12th man for two more Ashes Tests, as well as four One Day Internationals against the tourists, his brief international career high point coming at the height of the World Series Cricket schism.

His overall first-class record was one to admire, stretching from his debut as an 18-year-old for Queensland in 1969-70 through to his final games for Queensland in 1980-81.

A significant part of his playing career saw him represent Queensland as a regionally based player who commuted to Brisbane from Childers in the central Burnett region for his Shield and One-Day games.

He was informed of his initial National selection while captaining Queensland Country in Bundaberg against England, as part of their Ashes tour schedule in November 1978.

Carlson and current Queensland Country Cricket President Kev Maher shared in a solid third wicket stand against the tourists that day, although England was too strong on the way to winning the 35-over a side match.

Queensland Cricket Chair Chris Simpson expressed condolences to Carlson’s family on behalf of the cricket community.

“Phil provided many outstanding performances for Queensland, and in his post-playing life was a popular and much-admired member of the cricketing fraternity,” he said.

“He was a great supporter of the game through positions with the Queensland Cricketers’ Club and took much pleasure in being associated with Country and Premier Cricket. We will mourn his passing and offer our sympathies to his family and friends.”

Carlson was 70. He is survived by his wife Sandi, children Kandy, Steen, Kurt, Hana and nine grandchildren.

A celebration of his life will be held on Thursday at the Queensland Cricketers’ Club from 11am.