The 1912 Triangular Tournament was a Test cricket competition played between Australia, England and South Africa, the only Test-playing nations at the time.

At that time, pitches were not covered to protect them against rain, so the batsmen were at a distinct disadvantage on the proverbial sticky wicket.

[1] In addition, disputes between the players and management in Australia meant that six leading Australian players refused to tour[a] whilst medical duties meant “Ranji” Hordern, easily Australia’s best bowler in the 1911–12 Ashes series, could not tour either.

[2] These setbacks severely weakened a side that had otherwise been level with England in recent Ashes series.

[3] Perhaps the most notable incident of the series was Australian bowler Jimmy Matthews taking two hat-tricks in the same Test match, one in each innings of the opening match against South Africa, the only time a bowler has taken two hat-tricks in the same Test.