The Australian player retired mid-innings after being notified of the birth of his child and returned the next day to win the match.

Western Australia all-rounder Hilton Cartwright made headlines for his remarkable decision to retire mid-innings during the Sheffield Shield match against Tasmania after being notified of the unexpected birth of his second child. With an unbeaten score of 52*, Cartwright received a call during the tea break on the second day of the match, prompting him to rush to hospital to be by his wife’s side.

Cartwright’s wife, Tameka, who was 37 weeks pregnant, experienced complications that led her obstetrician to recommend an induced birth that same day. Reflecting on the surprise moment, Cartwright said: “My wife Tameka was only 37 weeks pregnant, so the birth of our second child was not going to affect this match against Tassie, so I decided to play.”

The 31-year-old right-hander had previously informed Tasmania and match officials of the situation, ensuring his departure would not disrupt the game. He explained his plan, saying: “Tasmania were informed of this situation during the break in innings. Between myself, the coaches and (WA captain) Sam (Whiteman), we had a plan in place regarding the time I would need to leave the ground during the tea break with the hope of returning to the crease at a later point in the innings. “

After ensuring the safety and well-being of his wife and newborn, Cartwright quickly returned to the WACA Ground in Perth. Although there were doubts as to whether Tasmania and the match referee would allow him to resume his innings, Cartwright re-entered the game after teammate Cooper Connolly was dismissed.

Dismissed at 65.

However, his return to action was short-lived. Facing Tasmania’s Riley Meredith, Cartwright was eventually dismissed for a creditable 65 runs, capping a dramatic day both on and off the field.

Cartwright’s innings was crucial in Western Australia reaching 332 in the first innings. The team ultimately triumphed by six wickets in the match, with Cartwright remaining unbeaten on 39 in a paltry 83-run chase.