Here’s wishing one of the best batsman in West Indies history – Sir Richard Benjamin Richardson. Richardson, known for his wonderful sixes and quick pace turns 60 years old today.
Richardson debuted in Test against India on November 24, 1983. Sir Richie with 16 centuries and 27 half centuries has scored 5949 runs in his Test career. His ODI debut was against India and with a journey of 224 ODI games, Sir Richard has managed to score 5 centuries and 44 half centuries.
Richardson captained team West Indies in 24 Test games between 1991 to 1995, resulting in 11 wins, 6 losses and rest of the games ending in draw. He took over the captaincy from Sir Viv Richards.
Richardson, famous for his brimmed maroon hat, never preferred to wear a helmet, which as a result he got few injuries, getting hit on the face. Ironically Sir Richard was famous for his pull and hook shot.
Richardson, by far was a favourite pick for West Indies, whenever they played against Australia. Richardson scored 9 centuries against Australia and statistically had a good performance against the Aussies. 194 against India was his highest score.
Richardson retired after suffering from ‘chronic fatigue syndrome’ and struggled to continue cricket. Richardson was seen making a return, when he was appointed as West Indies team manager for two years. In 2014 Richardson was appointed a Knight Commander of the Order of the Nation. In 2015 former middle-order batsman Richardson was appointed to the Elite Panel of Match Referee by International Cricket Council (ICC).