Dear Editor,

I am very glad to know that former West Indies batting star and captain, Vivian Richards, otherwise known as the “Master Blaster”, has been declared the greatest One-Day International cricketer in the history of the game. This is a wonderful achievement for him and I offer hearty congratulations. He truly deserves to be at that rank.

Former West Indies strike-bowler “Hurricane” Michael Holding, also known as the “Whispering Death” and the “Rolls-Royce” of fast-bowling, and also Ian Chappel, who was one of Australia’s great batsmen, were both very pleased with the decision by the International Cricket Council to give Viv Richards such a top honour. And it was very interesting listening to what Holding and Chappel said about the former great.

During his playing days, the “Run Machine” was my favourite batsman, and he has put himself in a position for all the honour, all the praise and the glory due to his name and magnificent performances. He was also a very good fielder and bowler, who did very, very well for his team.

Just as the Whispering Death used to cause fear in many batsmen facing his devastating deliveries, so it was with the Master Blaster; some bowlers dreaded bowling at him as he was merciless on bowlers.

Chris Gayle, the power-hitting left-hander, in my opinion, is next to Sir Viv in being the next explosive and dominant West Indies cricketer. Kieron Pollard is yet to prove himself fully. If Gayle gets things right and becomes more consistent before retiring from ODI he could very well be seen as the next Vivian Richards in terms of style and class.

Donald J McKoy

donaldmckoy2010@hotmail.com