| The Cheeky Cricketers Who Stumped The Queen |
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| Written by Joanne Leyland | |
| Sunday, 07 January 2007 | |
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Page 3 of 4 This is something the Queen never does, and at first it seemed this 'rule' was to continue, as Lillee himself recalls: "The Queen came to the final day of the Centenary Test in Melbourne in 1977, which celebrated 100 years of Ashes contests, and complemented the occasion beautifully." "I asked the 12th man during lunch to put my autograph book and a pen in my blazer pocket so I could have it ready at the line-up at tea."  Continued Lillee: "When our captain, Greg Chappell, introduced me to Her Majesty, I bowed then produced the book and pen and stuttered: 'Would you mind signing this for me?' She smiled, embarrassed, and said: 'Not now'."But Lillee, whose colourful public persona belies a more traditional respect and admiration for the Crown, wasn't to be deterred: "I said, with no disrespect intended: 'If not now, when will I ever get it? I don't imagine you'll be popping into the dressing room after play for a drink.'" The Queen is believed to have been reticent due to her wish not to be seen signing an autograph in public, before a crowd of thousands and a TV audience of millions worldwide. After all, if she was seen to sign for one person then everybody would be clamouring for her signature. However, a thrilled Lillee was to see his wish granted. As he recalls in his autobiography: "A week or so later an aide from the Palace got in touch and asked me for my address as the Queen wanted to send me a signed photo." 
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