When we think of cricket in 1980s and 90s, often the most towering figure that comes to our mind is great batter from West Indies Sir Vivian Richards. Richards was a man who had his distinct style of play in his days, not something that opposition bowler enjoyed.
No wonder why Vivian Richards is widely regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of all time. He was a dominant force in the sport during the 1970s and 1980s, and his aggressive style of play made him a fan favorite. Here are ten of the best moments from Vivian Richards’ illustrious career:
1) First Test Century of Career
Vivian Richards’ first Test century came against India in Delhi in 1974. Richards, who was just 22 years old at the time, scored 192 runs in the match, which was his second Test appearance. His innings was crucial in helping the West Indies secure a win in the match. Richards’ aggressive style of play was on full display during his innings, and he hit 20 fours and 6 sixes in his knock.
2) Highest Test Score in 1976 vs England
Back in 1976, Vivian Richards played an absolute blinder of an innings against England at The Oval. He smashed a whopping 291 runs in the match, which was his highest Test score at the time. The way he batted was just incredible, hitting 38 fours and four sixes during his knock. It was a real treat to watch him play, and he was just so aggressive and confident at the crease. His innings helped the West Indies secure a draw in the match, and it was just a joy to see him dominate the English bowlers like that.
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3) 1979 World Cup Final Heroics
Vivian Richards was an absolute beast in the 1979 Cricket World Cup final against England at Lord’s. He scored a massive 138 runs in the match, which was just incredible to watch. The way he batted was so aggressive and confident, and he just dominated the English bowlers. He hit 11 fours and three sixes during his innings, and it must have been a joy to see him play like that. His innings helped the West Indies win the World Cup by 92 runs.
4) Fastest Test Century
Vivian Richards was really a few generations ahead of his contemporary cricket world. In a test match against England at St. John’s, Viv Richards scored the fastest Test century in history at the time, reaching the milestone in just 56 balls! That’s just insane! He looked unstoppable and English bowlers looked clueless. He hit 10 fours and 7 sixes during his innings. His innings helped the West Indies win the match comfortably by massive 240 runs.
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5) Record Breaking Year
Vivian Richards was just ahead of his time! In 1985, he had a record-breaking year in Test cricket, scoring a whopping 1,710 runs, including eight centuries! That’s just insane! The way he batted was just incredible, and he was just so dominant at the crease. He was just so far ahead of the game, and he set the standard for how cricket should be played. His aggressive style of play was just so exciting to watch, and he was just so confident in his abilities. Richards was just a legend of the game, and his record-breaking year in 1985 will always be remembered as one of the greatest achievements in cricket history.
6) The Friendship of a Lifetime
Vivian Richards and Ian Botham are two of the greatest cricketers of all time, and they have been close friends for many years. The friendship between the two started when they played together for Somerset in the English County Championship in the 1980s. They quickly became close friends, and their friendship has lasted to this day. In 1986, Botham resigned from Somerset after he came to know that the Club didn’t renew Vivian Richards’ contract. They have always been there for each other.
It won’t be wrong to say that both were party animals in their times. They have played together for the West Indies and Somerset, and they have also worked together as commentators. Despite their busy schedules, they still find time to catch up and spend time together.
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7) 2 Years Ban in 1969
Sir Viv Richards was banned for two years at the age of 17 following an incident during a Leeward Islands Tournament match in Antigua against St Kitts. Richards was included in the Antigua squad for the first time and was carded to make his debut against St Kitts. Unfortunately, things did not go as planned with his first delivery flying to short leg, who appealed for a catch.
The umpire gave him out, much to the displeasure of both Richards and his supporters. Richards made a gesture in response, and the spectators started setting the stand on fire. Richards was given an opportunity to return to the crease, but he fell for a duck again, which did not go down well with the thousands of spectators who had protested for him earlier.
8) Leading West Indies
Vivian Richards was just a legend of the game! He was appointed captain of the West Indies cricket team in 1987, and he led the team to a series victory over England. Richards was just so dominant as a captain, and he set records that still stand today. He won 27 out of 50 Test matches as captain, which is just incredible! He also led the West Indies to a record-breaking 11 consecutive Test victories, which is still the record for the most consecutive Test wins by any team. Richards was just so confident and aggressive as a captain, and he always led by example on the field. He was just a natural leader.
9) Last Test Match for West Indies
Never easy to see such players walking off for for a last time. Vivian Richards played his final Test match for the West Indies in 1991. His retirement was a huge loss for the team and for cricket fans all over the world. Richards played his final Test match against England, and he scored 60 runs in his last innings. It was a fitting end to an incredible career, and Richards received a standing ovation from the crowd as he walked off the field for the final time with a legacy behind.
10) Accolades and Recognition
Throughout his life, Sir Vivian Richards remained an influential figure, someone who injected life into cricket everytime he went out to play the beautiful game. For his outstanding contribution to cricket, Richards recieved Wisden Player of the Year in 1991. Richards was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1999, recognizing his contributions to cricket and his service to the community. Richards was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2000, cementing his status as one of the greatest cricketers of all time.
These moments highlight Richards’ incredible talent and skill as a cricketer, as well as his impact on the sport both on and off the field. To this day, he is very much known as a legend of the game, often regarded as best of his generation and one of the most profound and impactful player to ever play the game.
