Summary
In his 35 Tests, which included Australia's first seventeen Tests, Blackham made 800 runs at an average of 15.68 (highest score of 74), and dismissed 60 batsmen (36 caught, 24 stumped). In 45 matches for Victoria he scored 1600 runs at 22.85, with one century (109 in 1884), and dismissed 451 batsmen. However, his value as a batsman cannot be judged by averages, as he was often at his best when the game was at a critical stage. He was not a success as a captain as he worried too much when off the field. After his retirement in 1895 a match for his benefit was arranged, and an annuity was bought with the proceeds.
He captained Australia in eight matches, winning three. His nervous temperament meant that he worried over small setbacks, and could not bear to watch close finishes.
Blackham was also a leading Australian rules footballer for Fitzroy Football Club in the Victorian Football Association (VFA) during the 1880s.
Blackham later invested his earnings from his tours of England, without success. A lifelong bachelor, he died in Melbourne, Victoria.
| Preceded by Hugh Massie |
Australian Test cricket captains 1884/5 |
Succeeded by Tup Scott |
| Preceded by Billy Murdoch |
Australian Test cricket captains 1891/2-1894/5 |
Succeeded by George Giffen |
| Preceded by none |
Australian Test wicket-keepers 1876–1894 |
Succeeded by Billy Murdoch |
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