gifford finished 1960 with 41 wickets at an average of 17.90, but this only hinted at the success he was to enjoy the following year. 1961 proved to be the most productive season of gifford's career as he took 133 wickets. in july 1961, he was notified he was on the long list to tour india and pakistan with the marylebone cricket club (mcc) side, but was not selected for the final party. in compensation he toured rhodesia and pakistan with an international xi. he was again fairly successful in the 1962 and 1963 seasons, with 92 and 72 wickets respectively, and in 1962 was selected for the players in their penultimate match against the gentlemen before the distinction between amateur and professional cricketers was abolished.