5 things you should know about Australia's unknown substitute Grant Baldwin

Grant Baldwin used to play for Victorian second XI

Australia’s move to field their masseur and logistics coordinator Grant Baldwin as a substitute during the historic day-night Test had surprised everyone. He was brought on field in place for an injured Mitchell Starc. Here are five facts you should know about the 28-year-old:

1. He played for Victorian second XI and was quite successful in showing his prowess. However, since year 2008, he hasn’t played a single match for this team. The right-handed opening batsman has also played for Victoria Emerging Players and participated in Cricket Australia Cup. When everybody was surprised to see Baldwin play for Baggy Greens, an Australian journalist tweeted that the 28-year-old was indeed a star junior. The journalist Adam Baldwin tweeted, “Grant Baldwin (no relation) was a star junior. Made 214* in U/12s. Not surprised to see him wearing the baggy green.”

Grant Baldwin (no relation) was a star junior. Made 214* in U/12s. Not surprised to see him wearing the baggy green. https://t.co/G0ecHn2md3

— Adam Baldwin (@adamwbaldwin) November 28, 2015

2. Not just cricket, Grant Baldwin had shown his interest in football too. He was once registered for Australian Football League draft. Australian Football League, previously known as Victorian Football League is a professional league in the country. Cricketers, during off-seasons would often participate in this league to stay fit. Similarly, many footballers participating in this league, used to play district cricket during their off-seasons. Some of such footballers have represented their states and even Australia as cricketers.

3. Baldwin has fielded for the Aussies earlier in tour games in South Africa and UAE. Last year he had bowled an over in South Africa in one such tour matches. In 2013, Baldwin was named the 12th man of an Australian XI that played against Indian President’s XI in Chennai. He was brought in as Australia was playing an international Twenty 20 match against West Indies at Brisbane on the same day. Such was the situation that 19-year-old Western Australia spinner Ashton Agar, who had made his first class debut just a month back, was included in the team playing against Indian President’s XI.

4. The 28-year-old was part of many backroom events of Australia. Australia was not performing well in their 2013 Test series against India. After losing the second test in Hyderabad, the team management along with coach Mickey Arthur and captain Michael Clarke held a meeting. Baldwin was present in this meeting which was called to discuss loopholes of the team.

5. Baldwin’s wife Tessa Morley is also a qualified Myotherapist like him. She is part of Australia’s 2013 WAGS team, nicknamed ‘The Sheilas’. She has toured with the team a number of times and even celebrated her birthday during one such tour. Tessa is also a Ballet Teacher.