THIS former cricket star once cheated death on the field.

But he has since found a new career with an entirely different job.

Ewen Chatfield, 73, was once a top medium-pace bowler for New Zealand’s cricket team.

The ace played 43 Tests and 114 One Day Internationals for the Kiwis.

But disaster struck in a match against England in 1975 – Chatfield’s first ever Test.

Chatfield was at the bat when he was struck in the head by a bouncing ball from Peter Lever.

He was left unconscious and not breathing after swallowing his tongue.

And only some quick thinking from England physio Bernard Thomas saved his life, with Chatfield requiring a heart massage and mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.

After going to hospital, it became clear he had suffered a fractured skull.

But Chatfield eventually made a recovery before continuing to play all forms of cricket until 1989.

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After retiring, the New Zealander tried out a host of different jobs including being a lawn-mower, a dairy farmer, a courier and a chip shop salesman.

However, Chatfield now drives a taxi in capital city Wellington.

He reckons it’s the ideal job now he’s reached an age where he’s “unemployable.”

And Chatfield is so committed to his work that he only watched six sessions before driving off while being guest of honour at New Zealand vs India in 2020.

Chatfield told Mid-Day: “You always have bills to pay. I am getting to a stage now where I am unemployable, so this job suits me.

“I can drive three hours a day or even for a whole day, and can watch cricket when I want.

“[Envious of today’s wealth?] No I am not. I didn’t have any say when I was born. I was happy to play for New Zealand.”