KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) – Legendary former West Indies Sir Wes Hall was yesterday inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame, in a ceremony during the lunch interval on the opening day of the second Test against Australia at Sabina Park.The 77-year-old received his commemorative cap from another legendary former pacer, Courtney Walsh, who has already been inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Sir Wes is the 18th West Indies player and fourth player overall this year to be inducted in the Hall of Fame which boasts 80 members.
“I feel privileged and indeed honoured to be given this tremendous award. I have noted the list and it has some tremendous cricketers – heroes who have made the game what it is today. So, I am humbled to be included among these many greats of the game,” Sir Wes said.
“Anytime you get these kind of encomiums, it is memorable. It is fantastic to receive the award in the West Indies and in front of adoring fans, which makes it even more special.
“I have represented the West Indies as a cricketer, as the team manager, and as the president of the WICB, so I will treat this as something I value and will always remember.”
He added: ““Fast bowling was my hallmark and I enjoyed my moments on the cricket field. I enjoyed representing the people of the West Indies and contributing towards the development of the game and the region.
“Cricket has been extremely good to me and I was happy to give back to the game. This honour, presented to me by the ICC, is one I will cherish. It is not just for me but for the people of the West Indies.”
Sir Wes was honoured for his services and contributions to cricket, where he performed several roles in administration following his illustrious playing career.
A lightning fast right-armer, Sir Wes snared 192 wickets from 48 Tests between 1958 and 1969. He is best remembered for bowling the last over in the famous tied Test against Australia in Brisbane in December, 1960 when he finished with match figures of nine for 203.
Also attending yesterday’s ceremony was West Indies Cricket Board president Dave Cameron, legendary former captain Clive Lloyd and cricketing great, Sir Everton Weekes.