Was Clem Hill better than Victor Trumper?

[Coronis]

Justice for Clem Hill

I’m curious, why the bump?

Anyway this comparison is far closer than the general opinion of Trumper >>> Hill (amongst cricket fans in general). Obviously Trumper was beautiful to watch and his 1902 tour affects how people rank him, FC performances were considered much more important back then.

Just a few excerpts from Clem’s Wisden obituary

A specially brilliant batsman on hard pitches

Actually mentioned in regard to his Shield record but as Trumper was known as a sticky specialist, it probably contributes.

While able to drive hard to the off or straight, usually with the ball kept down, Clem Hill scored chiefly on the leg side by skilful strokes perfectly timed and placed, the way in which he turned straight balls clear of fieldsmen being exceptional. Brilliant square and late cutting made Hill delightful to watch and in defence his style claimed admiration while his patience was unlimited

Clearly he was an excellent and aggressive player as well, with a SR similar to Ponting. As time goes on obviously though only a couple of players will ever be mentioned from that time and sadly Trumper being more aggressive and more stylish will always overshadow Hill.

AUS vs ENG Cricket Scorecard, 4th Test at Melbourne, January 29 - February 02, 1898

Get cricket scorecard of 4th Test, AUS vs ENG, England tour of Australia 1897/98 at Melbourne Cricket Ground dated January 29 - February 02, 1898.

www.espncricinfo.com

His greatest innings, must’ve been a masterpiece to watch. Remarkable considering Australia was 5/32 at one point.

This is the best innings to demonstrate my feelings on the two though

ENG vs AUS Cricket Scorecard, 2nd Test at London, June 15 - 17, 1899

Get cricket scorecard of 2nd Test, ENG vs AUS, Australia tour of England 1899 at Lord's, London dated June 15 - 17, 1899.

www.espncricinfo.com

Both with 135, winning Australia the series with the only result of those Ashes. Trumper slightly ahead cos he’s not out (even though he’s hiding down the order).

Basically I think its very close, but I would still have Trumper just ahead, love Clem though and think he’s criminally underrated compared to Vic

 

[mr_mister]

Bumped it to see if opinions had changed or if anyone who didn't contribute/see it last time now can. We've acquired a few new users since 2020. I'm real interested in smashing cricket myths lately

 

[honestbharani]

Trumper is better.

 

[h_hurricane]

I stand with my opinion earlier in this thread that Hill is really under-rated. But then Trumper was a hell of a good player to watch so can understand why people loved watching him and rated him higher.