LONDON, England, CMC – Batting legend Rohan Kanhai has become the latest West Indies icon to be inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame. Kanhai, who played 79 Tests for West Indies between 1957 and 1974, was honoured during the tea interval on the second day of the first Test between England and the West Indies at Lord’s on Thursday.
It follows on the heels of several legendary West Indies being honoured for their contribution to the game during England’s recent tour of the Caribbean. “I am honoured to be part of the Cricket Hall of Fame and especially so in this centenary year of the ICC,” the 75-year old Kanhai said. “To be honoured at Lord’s, of all places, and at the same time as Sir Alec (Bedser), one of the legends of the game, makes this a very special occasion for me.
“Throughout my cricket career, I played against some great teams and great players and have some treasured memories. Being a part of this elite group is very rewarding and the icing on the cake.”
Kanhai carved out 6227 runs at an average of 47.53, while scoring 15 centuries and 28 fifties.
The Guyanese batsman is also well remembered for his key role in ensuring the West Indies’ capture of the first Cricket World Cup in 1975 when they defeated Australia in the final at Lord’s by 17 runs.
In that match, Kanhai struck 55 in a pivotal 149-run partnership with Clive Lloyd to revive West Indies after they struggled early on.
International Cricket Council president, David Morgan who presented Kanhai with his ICC Hall of Fame cap, praised the stylish right-hander.
“In a team full of wonderful players, Kanhai was right up there with the best of the great West Indies cricketers,” said Morgan.
“He was a genuine stylist and he thrilled crowds all over the world, not least here in England, both when he toured with the West Indies and when he played for Warwickshire.”
Bedser, who grabbed 236 wickets from 51 Tests, was also inducted into the ICC Half of Fame.
