Ted Meuli

Former BLACKCAPS Test cricketer Ted Meuli died in Auckland on Sunday (April 15), aged 81.

Born in Hawera, raised in New Plymouth where he captained the Boys High 1st XI during the latter years of WWII, Ted Meuli made his first class debut for Auckland in the Plunket Shield competition before relocating back to New Plymouth to take up his life-long career as a school teacher.

He went on to represent Central Districts in a first class career that stretched from 1945 till 1960.

Ted made his one test appearance when chosen as a batsman against South Africa at the Basin Reserve in March 1953. He scored 15 and 23 in his only two innings, and continued to represent Taranaki at Hawke Cup level until well into the 1960s.

Although ill for some time, Ted followed the fortunes of the BLACKCAPS until the very end.

Released from North Shore Hospital on Saturday to his son's home in Red Beach, he insisted on being woken early on Sunday morning so he could watch the latest BLACKCAPS ICC World Cup match against South Africa.

Shortly after the conclusion of the match he complained of feeling tired so went back to bed for a nap. He passed away peacefully in his sleep late on Sunday morning.

Ted is survived by Nerida, his wife of 53 years, and sons Paul, Brett and Rohan.