The Compton-Miller medal is presented to the Ashes Series player named in honor of two greatest players of the post Second World War period. The player of the Ashes Series will be the inaugural winner of the medal which commemorates two of the greatest post war players. The two great legend cricketers after whom this medal is mainly named are the all-rounder Keith Miller of Australia and the batsman of England, Denis Compton. This medal was inaugurated in 2005 Ashes Series in England and especially given as the Ashes Man of the Series award.
The relation between both the players as per David Collier, the chief executive of the ECB was of both rivalry and friendship too. They used to light up their surrounding environment and were known to be the dashing heroes of their day. Both were true legends of cricket and it is proper that these national icons are honored by the England and Wales Cricket Board and Cricket Australia. Both of them especially Denis Compton had the post war position of a matinee idol with a love of living life to the full. This is what is so unique about any sporting contest which is held between Australia and England. They play aggressively but fairly and competitively but with respect.
The launch
The launch of the new medal in their honor was announced at Lord’s minutes before the eve of the first test match in 2005 of Ashes series in the presence of Miller’s widow Marie Challman and son of Compton, Richard (who travelled from his residence in South Africa) representing the two great men honored in the title of the award. During this period, the two captains for the series were also present, Ricky Ponting and Michael Vaughan.
The CEO of the Cricket Australia, James Sutherland, said that the concept of the Compton-Miller Medal initially developed after the memorial service for Keith Milled at St. Paul’s Cathedral in Melbourne. He added that they wanted a proper way of remembering Keith and it was his wife who reminded them of his great friendship with Denis Compton, his English alter-ego.
Recipients of this medal
One of the recipient include Andrew Flintoff the all-rounder for the England cricket team made 402 runs with 24 wickets for the 2005 Ashes Series. It was a special moment for Flintoff in his career and he would always treasure this moment as he was the first winner of this medal.
In 2006-07, Ricky Ponting won the medal for his contribution of 576 runs at an average of 82. Ponting is the middle order batsman and even the captain of the Australian team. In 2009, the medal was given to Andrew Strauss, the opening batsman and captain of the England team for his 474 runs at an average of 52.66.
Medal design and selectors
The Compton-Miller medal is designed and manufactured by the South Wales Royal Mint. Carved from 22 carat Welsh gold, the medal winners will be decided by Geoff Miller, who is the ECB national Selector along with Andrew Hilditch, the chairman of the selection panel of Australia.