Roberts started his career as a right-handed middle-order batsman, but soon things changed and one saw him take the new ball for New Zealand. Without much pace, Roberts could get the ball to swing both ways and was a very skiddy customer. A career that was spread over seven years, Roberts appeared in only five Tests for the Black Caps.

He was first noticed when he played some handy innings for Canterbury against the touring England side in 1929-30. Those got him the recognition and soon Roberts was drafted into the New Zealand Test side - making his debut against England. Batting at No. 3, Roberts did not have the greatest of starts, but soon found his way with a 54 against South Africa in only his second Test.

During the tour of England in 1937, Roberts took 62 wickets and scored 510 runs in the first class games before injuring his shoulder and finger. He missed most of the series, but in the two games that he played, Roberts scored 66 not out at Lord's and 50 at Oval. However, that was the last time he represented New Zealand as injuries kept him out of the side.

Roberts passed away on May 13, 1978 at Clyde, Otago, aged 68.


By Akshay Maanay