Bert Vance was something of a utility player - he started his career as a wicketkeeper, turned himself into an opening batsman, and latterly became a well-respected captain. A stalwart of the Wellington side for more than a decade - he made 199 appearances for them, scoring 6440 runs at 34.43 - international recognition came late in his career. He was almost 33 when picked against England in 1987-88, but he scored 43 batting at No.3 in a rain-ruined match. He played twice against Pakistan the following summer, scoring 68 at Auckland, and once more - against Australia - later that summer. He also played eight ODIs, enjoying his best form in the Sharjah Cup in 1987-88 when he scored 186 runs at 46.50 with a best of 96 - and a Man of the Match award - in the semi-final against Sri Lanka. He holds the record for the most runs conceded in a first-class over - 77 against Canterbury in 1990.
Martin Williamson

• The XI worst overs (Jul 28, 2005)
  
• The 77-run over (Mar 19, 2005)
  
• The 77-run over (Mar 12, 2005)

Jan 5, 2003 Robert Vance's 98 v Auckland © Pat Culpan

Bob Vance © The Cricketer International

Bert Vance batting © The Cricketer International

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