A notable piece of cricket history was recently auctioned, drawing significant attention from fans and collectors alike. A “Baggy Green” cap worn by the legendary Australian batsman Don Bradman during the 1947-48 series against India sold for $460,000 at a Gold Coast auction.
The cap was originally given by Bradman to Indian cricketer Sriranga Wasudev Sohoni, whose family has kept it preserved for the past 75 years. This long-term preservation allowed for the cap to remain in excellent condition, and the family’s stringent rules meant that only select moments allowed for it to be seen outside of its protective storage.
Lee Hames, the chief operating officer of Lloyds Auctioneers and Valuers, highlighted the cap’s storied history, revealing that family members could only view it under strict circumstances. This fascinating backstory adds to the uniqueness of the cap, which was sold to an anonymous bidder.
The cap features inscriptions of both “D.G. Bradman” and “S.W. Sohoni” on the inside, affirming its authenticity. Reports indicate that this cap will be displayed in an Australian museum, marking its significance not just for cricket enthusiasts but for sports history as a whole. In contrast, another cap worn by Bradman, which fetched $311,000 in 2024, was noted to be sun-faded and insect-damaged, underscoring the value of well-preserved memorabilia.
Widely celebrated as the greatest batsman of all time, Don Bradman’s impressive career includes 52 test matches and a batting average of 99.94—remarkably higher than any other player in the sport’s history. His legacy continues to resonate, as evidenced by the staggering prices associated with his memorabilia and the deep appreciation held by both cricket fans and historians.