Sir Frank Worrell

Judgment, balance and exquisite timing

Born in Barbados in 1924 Frank Worrell had never seen a first-class match when he made his debut for his country at the age of 18. He played for Barbados from 1942 to 1946, Jamaica from 1947-1962 and for the West Indies from 1947 to 1963. The first black man to lead the West Indies outside the Caribbean he and his Australian counterpart Richie Benaud revived the fortunes of Test cricket in 1960-61. The first Test produced the first tie in 502 Test matches and the quality of cricket and the exemplary spirit of both teams enthralled Australian crowds. Worrell presided over an equally successful tour to England in 1963 where he also enjoyed a distinguished career in League cricket.

Although he achieved his fame as a right-handed batsman he was also a left-handed spin and fast-medium bowler who at times took the new ball. A graceful, orthodox batsman he was renowned for his judgment, balance and exquisite timing especially of his late cut. However, it was the manner of his calm and intelligent leadership that stamped him as one of the game's immortals. He was knighted in 1964 but three years later died tragically early from leukemia at the age of 42.

'He was a great leader of men and one of the finest cricketers on and off the field in the history of the game... a great player, a great man and a wonderful servant to cricket.' Richie Benaud

'My aim was always to see West Indies moulded from a rabble of brilliant island individualists into a real team.' Sir Frank Worrell

The Stats

Sir Frank Worrell succeeded in unifying the disparate talents and attitudes of his players by his deeds with bat and ball, together with his renowned empathy for his men. A dedicated federalist, he showed the people of the West Indies that despite being divided by national borders they could be united under cricket.

Did you know?

In his debut match as captain, Frank Worrell made 65 runs in each Innings! His highest score as captain was 98*. Worrell is the only Test player to be unbeaten in the 190s twice (191* and 197*, both against England).