Frank Thorn

(1912-1942)

Frank Thorn was one of four Victorian first-class cricketers who are known to have lost their lives serving in the Second World War. Thorn was born in country Victoria in St Arnaud in 1912. He played district cricket with Northcote under coach Jack Baggott, who considered Thorn a prospect of playing for Australia. Thorn justified this faith in his 7 matches for Victoria spread over two seasons. He captured 24 wickets, highlighted by twice dismissing Don Bradman. Frank enlisted in the RAAF, becoming a pilot and an officer. He was killed during an attack on shipping at Gasmata, New Britain in Melanesia on 11 February 1942.  He was 29 years old.

Coleman, Robert (1990). Seasons in the sun: the story of the Victorian Cricket Association.  North Melbourne : Hargreen.