Sir Vivian Richards

Courage and an air of invincibility

Born on the tiny island of Antigua (population 70,000) Richards established his identity playing for Somerset in English county competition. The greatest batsman of his time he played with a swaggering superiority even arrogance which contrasted starkly from his off-field demeanor. Despite being opposed by a plethora of great fast bowlers he never wore a protective helmet and his daring hook was a signature stroke.

He announced his genius in England in 1976 amassing 829 runs at 118.42 with two double centuries in four Tests. Outspoken and keenly attuned to the cultural politics of the Caribbean, he was loved by crowds everywhere for his courage and air of invincibility. One of Wisden's Five Cricketers of the 20th Century he was also among the greatest of all fieldsmen. He helped make the West Indies the greatest team of the modern era.

'Viv Richards does not always attain... fierce majesty, but when he does, he bats with fury... that is Richards at his greatest, utterly determined to destroy an attack.' Peter Roebuck

'It would be hard to overpraise Richards, either for the brilliance with which he bats or the spirit in which he plays the game.' Wisden 1981

The Stats

While other batsmen have scored more runs than Vivian Richards none have done so with such majesty. It is the power, timing and impunity with which he batted that indelibly lingers in those fortunate enough to have seen him play. He took batting excitement to another level.

Did you know?

As an occasional spin bowler, Viv Richards took 7 wickets against Australia. Four of these dismissals were Dean Jones.