David Freedman - take a bow Freddy

Paul Ryan | June 04, 2025

Word has filtered through that Cricket NSW Baggy Blue Player No 639, David Freedman, has wrapped up his time with Cricket NSW.

Known to most simply as Freddy, Fred, or the Gangster, David’s been part of the Cricket NSW fabric since 1991 — as a player, coach, selector, and development manager. It’s been a mighty innings.

One of his former teammates put it thoughtfully:

“If David Freedman bumped into any NSW U17, U19, Colts or First-Class player from the last 25 years, he’d greet them by name — no hesitation. He’d ask about the key moments in their lives and probably check in on their parents by name too.”

That says it all. He knew people. He cared. And they remembered.

David Freedman with former NSW Coach Anthony Stuart on a field trip to Tamworth

A left-arm wrist spinner, Freddy made his first-class debut for NSW on December 12, 1991, at the SCG against Tasmania. He played 56 matches, taking 161 wickets at 31.04. Seven five-wicket hauls. Four 10-wicket matches. Best figures: 8/49.

That 8/49 came against the West Indies in 1995–96. And here’s a story from a former team mate that tells you everything about both the bowler and the bloke:

“In 2000–01 at the SCG, Freddy walked past the West Indies team. Brian Lara stopped his teammates and said, ‘See that guy Freedman? Shane Warne’s got nothing on him.’ Ask Freddy about it, and he’ll just smile and change the subject.”

Freddy also took 483 first-grade wickets for his beloved Bankstown and helped them to five or six premierships — he probably knows the exact number but won’t tell you unless you ask.

After his playing days, he poured himself into developing the next generation. If you ever want to know who he’s most proud of from all the NSW U17s or U19s he’s worked with, grab a chair. You’re in for a great yarn.

After 34 consecutive seasons as a player or employee at Cricket NSW, David Freedman's chapter has officially closed. His contribution? Immeasurable. His impact? Lasting. And hopefully, the care and loyalty he’s given the Baggy Blue has been recognised — and appropriately returned — in full.

I had the good fortune to play against and with Freddy, — a humble, loyal, team-first guy who gave his all for the game.

Cheers, Freddy. You’ve done yourself, your family and cricket, proud.

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