WICB remembers late great Marshall

Sunday, November 22, 2009 12:16 AM

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Friday, November 06, 2009

ST JOHN'S, Antigua (CMC) - The West Indies Cricket Board on Wednesday paid tribute to the late Malcolm Marshall, as they marked the 10th anniversary of the legendary fast bowler's death.

Malcolm Marshall

Marshall, who finished with 376 wickets from 81 Tests, died of cancer on November 4, 1999 in his native Barbados at age 41.

Widely hailed as one of the finest fast bowlers the game has seen, the WICB said Marshall had been a true servant of regional cricket.

"On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of his death the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) pays homage to a man who was a true servant of the game giving his heart and soul," a WICB statement said.

"[He was] a true ambassador for West Indies cricket playing with pride and passion; a man for all seasons who had a phenomenal cricket brain; and a favourite with cricket lovers all over the world with his warm embrace and friendly smile."

Marshall also served as West Indies coach and also captained Barbados during his illustrious career. He also represented Hampshire in the English County Championship and Natal in South Africa and in a first-class career spanning three decades, snatched 1651 wickets in 408 matches.

He was voted Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1983 and was also voted among the Top 100 cricketers of the 20th century. Earlier this year, he was inducted into the International Cricket Council's Hall of Fame.

"A lot of cricketers all over the world credit Marshall guiding them during the years of their development," the WICB said.

"He was a mentor and father figure. He brought thousands of fans through the gates and gave them a reason to love this glorious game. He gave us some super-human performances on the field and provided us with memories that we will cherish.

"He was a major player in the era when West Indies stood supreme on the world stage and helped to maintain the high standards set by those who went before him."