Faith Thomas Obituary, Death – The narrative of how Australia’s first female Indigenous international sportsperson became interested in cricket is a stunning depiction of the tenacious, resolute personality that has inspired so many. Aunty Faith was struck by a cricket ball when she was very little, prompting her to break into tears as the anguish coursed through her. As a result, she decided to purchase a bat so that she would be prepared the next time. As a result, a Test cricketer was born.
Aunty Faith, the fastest female bowler of her generation, was selected for tours of England and New Zealand but declined due to the significant amount of time she would be away from home. She would not be denied that baggy green, however when she took part in an Ashes Test Match in Melbourne in 1958. Her baggy green, number 48, was a valued possession that she still carried with her. Aunty Faith’s legacy is beautifully represented in Adelaide Oval’s Avenue of Honour alongside other greats of the game, as co-chair of the Aboriginal Cricket Advisory Committee of South Australia and founder of the Aboriginal Sports Hall of Fame Federation, not to mention the owner of the remarkable figures of six wickets for no runs against Adelaide Teachers College early in her career.
Each year, the Adelaide Strikers compete in the WBBL for the Faith Thomas Trophy, a gorgeous work of art adorned with Aboriginal hardwood artifacts that is awarded to the victorious team during the First Nations Round. Aunty Faith reminds us that one person can change the world, one person can make a difference, and society can be better if we fight for what is right and listen and learn with open hearts and minds.
Aunty Faith’s impact on South Australia and beyond, according to SACA President William Rayner, is impossible to quantify. “Faith Thomas’ story is both inspiring and incredible.” “As a leader in medicine, sports, reconciliation, and so much more, Aunty Faith left footprints for others to follow in the decades since,” Rayner added. “A brilliantly unique and successful cricketer, Aunty Faith’s journey was never just about personal achievement; instead, she was always looking for ways to better the lives of others.” “Aunty Faith will be greatly missed, but because of her influence on this country, she will be remembered and honored for the way she lived her life.” On behalf of the South Australian Cricket Association, I extend my heartfelt sympathies to everybody who knew and loved Aunty Faith.”