A left-handed opener earlier in his career, Paul Hibbert later batted lower down in the order and turned himself into a brilliant close to the wicket fielder.
Hibbert played ten seasons for Carlton and another ten as captain-coach at Essendon, amassing 6697 runs at 36 with 12 centuries and 35 half-centuries. He was a member of the Blues' 1977-78 and 1978-79 premiership teams. His top score was 150 in the 1977-78 semi final against Ringwood at Ringwood.
Hibbert played 77 first class matches for Victoria, scoring 4775 runs at 39.13, with 9 centuries and 25 half-centuries. His top score was 163 against Queensland at the MCG in 1983-84.
Hibbert's maiden first class century, an even 100 against the touring Indians in 1977-78, was notable for the fact that the innings did not contain a boundary. Two weeks later, he was selected for the 1st Test at the Gabba, but after scoring just 13 and 2, he was not selected to represent Australia again.
Hibbert gave great service to Carlton, Essendon and Victoria over the next decade.
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