Former cricketers Roberts, Ambrose and Richardson knighted

St. John's (Antigua), March 1 (IANS/CMC) Former West Indies fast bowlers Andy Roberts and Curtly Ambrose and former captain and batsman Richie Richardson were knighted during the first One-Day International (ODI) between the West Indies and England here.

Roberts, Ambrose and Richardson received their knighthood at a presentation during the lunch interval of the game held at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium Friday. Governor General Louise Lake-Tack presented the three cricketers with their knighthood in a ceremony also attended by Prime Minister Baldwen Spencer.

"I am so proud to be in a position to honour some of the best players our island has produced. Andy Roberts and Curtly Ambrose both taught the world how rapid fast bowling could really be and Richie Richardson showed both leadership as Windies captain and great skill with the bat. Nobody can question his excellent record of wins or the 16 Test centuries he achieved during his career," said Spencer.

Roberts, the first Antiguan and Barbudan to represent the West Indies, made his debut against England in March 1974. The bowler was part of the 'quartet' of West Indian fast bowlers from the mid-1970s to the early 1980s that had a devastating effect on opposition batsmen.

Spencer lauded Richardson.

"The tenacity Richardson demonstrated in scoring 194 against India in 1989 to help the Windies to a draw, when other great batsmen were struggling, shows the resilience that great cricketers have always demonstrated and the gratitude owed to these great men by the people of our country and the region transcends political divides," said Spencer.

"We can all agree that these men have earned this honour in fine style and players like these show the West Indies and the world how much talent our country has to offer."

--IANS/CMC

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