By Neto Baptiste
Looking back at his illustrious career as a cricketer and as an ambassador for Antigua and Barbuda and the wider black community, former West Indies captain and legendary batsman Sir Vivian Richards, said he finds solace in the fact that he was able to use his talent to the benefit of his people.
Speaking on the Good Morning Jojo Sports Show on his 71st birthday on 7 March, Sir Viv reflected on the many triumphs and some failures along his journey, adding that his ability to adapt quickly to varying situations was key to his successes.
“You hear about maybe if you had an opportunity to change things or whatever but you have to take it for what it is. It’s like you’re playing a game of poker and you’re dealt whatever cards but you have to let them work and I am just happy that the hand I got that I was able to do something with it,” he said.
Sir Viv, the country’s only living National Hero, said that in spite of his accolades, his greatest achievement is remaining humble and appreciative of all the people around him who would have helped him realise his dream.
“I am not a guy who goes jumping too high at any particular time, but I just try to remain as level as possible, and that’s what is most important and whatever achievement there is. We should not allow that to make us feel we are different from anyone else. I am still very much part of the fabric of Antigua and Barbuda and of life,” he said.
Sir Viv showed appreciation to the many individuals who would have sent birthday greetings his way.
“Let me just take this opportunity to thank all the folks who would have basically spent some time in wishing me the best. Thank you all very much; it’s highly appreciated,” the former player said.
Sir Viv amassed 8540 runs in 121 Tests between 1974 and 1991. He had a highest of 291 with 24 centuries and 45 half centuries. The often destructive batsman had an average of 50.2 striking 1051 fours and 84 sixes.
In One Day Internationals, the Antiguan made a total of 6721 runs in 187 matches and a highest of 189 not out. He boast an average of 47 with 11 centuries and 45 half centuries. Sir Viv struck a total of 600 fours and 124 sixes in his ODI career that spanned 1975 to 1991.