by Abhishek Mukherjee

The first Test of the 1953 Ashes, at Trent Bridge, is remembered for Alec Bedser's 14/99. Chasing 229, England were 120/1 when time ran out.

The Test was not particularly memorable for Richie Benaud, the young Australian leg-spinner. He bowled 5 wicketless overs in the second innings after not bowling in the first, and scored 3 and 0. To be fair, however, he held two brilliant catches (Tom Graveney at short leg, Len Hutton at gully).

He was obviously not in a good mood during the match. After three days of cricket he needed a drink. But a Test match was on, so he stuck to orange juice.

Captain Lindsay Hassett spotted him at this point: "Why are you drinking that stuff? Have a scotch."

Benaud mumbled something about an ongoing Test match, but Hassett recognised the tone and offered him his own drink.

When Benaud complained that the drink lacked taste, Hassett summoned the bartender: "Give Mr Benaud a double scotch. He thinks this one is a bit tasteless."

That double was followed by another. And another.

Benaud finished the night with eleven doubles and a treble.

He did not have reason to worry. The following day was a rest day, so he had time to recover. However, the team had to travel about 18 miles to meet to the Duke of Portland.

Benaud sensibly took the seat next to the driver. The plan was to ask him to stop if there was an 'emergency'.

Unfortunately, just before the team coach left, a Daily Mail correspondent and his wife boarded as well. They were going the same way, so why not hitch a ride?

Benaud sat with gritted teeth, fighting every possible particle from leaving every orifice, throughout the ride. In fact, he later admitted that it was the "most agonising trip" of his life.

There are some things you do not do in life. It does not matter how you feel. You do not throw up and admit to a long night of alcohol in front of Don and Jessie Bradman.

Benaud's far from "mwavellous" experience took place on 14 June 1953.