Sir Vivian Richards said he was moved as he reunited with his “brothers” who were part of the teams when the West Indies won the men’s Cricket World Cup in 1975 and 1979. The icon of global sports, who looks youthful even at age 73, was in Barbados for the 50th anniversary celebrations of the first win against Australia on June 21, 1975.
He also took time to celebrate the victory on June 23, 1979 against England. Sir Clive Lloyd was the captain and both matches were played at Lord’s – the Home of Cricket. Sir Viv played a crucial role in both memorable triumphs. In the first edition he was brilliant in the outfield with three run outs, and in the second he scored a memorable century to win the Man-of-the-Match award.
“I’m moved. This is a truly outstanding event to honor us brothers who stood together in the battle to uplift West Indies cricket. As I reflect on what happened here tonight, I’m at a loss for words. We played together, we shared the same dressing room, we were teammates; we became friends, and we became brothers. Everyone had each other’s back, and tonight it’s just magnificent that we can come together again and celebrate what we managed to achieve,” Sir Viv said.
“What makes this event even more special is that we also celebrate our brothers who are no longer with us and our brothers who could not make it tonight. I remember Boycie (Keith Boyce) and Freddo (Roy Fredricks) from 75 and Maco (Malcolm Marshall) from 79. They played great roles in West Indies cricket and their memories will live on forever. West Indies cricket shone bright tonight and I’m pleased with this great celebrations.” (PS)
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