Bernard Julien, West Indies World Cup Winner, Passes Away at 75

Bernard Julien, the former West Indies all-rounder who contributed to their 1975 World Cup victory, has died at 75 years old. He died on Saturday in Valsayn, a Northern Trinidad town.

During the 1970s, Julien played an important role in West Indies cricket, making 24 Test appearances and participating in 12 One-Day Internationals (ODIs).

He became well-known as an explosive all-rounder because of his dynamic fielding, forceful left-arm seam bowling, and ability to play strokes.

Julien demonstrated his importance to the team at the inaugural ODI World Cup in 1975, beginning with a match-winning performance of 4 for 20 against Sri Lanka in the group game.

He kept up his outstanding play by claiming 4 for 27 against New Zealand in the semi-final. He also played a crucial innings of 26 off 37 balls in the final against Australia, which was instrumental in their historic victory.

Former West Indies captain Clive Lloyd honored his teammate and emphasized his commitment.

Lloyd remarked, “He consistently gave more than 100 percent. He never avoided his obligations, and I could always count on him with the bat and ball. Every time, he gave it his all. What an excellent cricket player.”

Julien’s career included other notable achievements, such as his match-winning first Test century—121 against England at Lord’s in 1973. The following year, he also managed a five-wicket haul against the same team.

Lloyd stated, “We all had the utmost respect for him. He had fun and was well-liked by everyone. I recall that we won the Test match at Lords, where we stood and signed autographs for a considerable amount of time. He helped us out and was well-regarded everywhere we went.”

From 1970 to 1977, Julien had a lengthy tenure in county cricket, playing for Kent. However, when he joined a rebel West Indies team that toured South Africa in 1982–83 during the apartheid era, his international career was tragically cut short.

Dr. Kishore Shallow, President of Cricket West Indies (CWI), made a statement of inclusion when addressing this contentious issue.

Dr. Kishore Shallow, President of Cricket West Indies, stated, “As we celebrate Bernard Julien, we also understand the significance of reflection and inclusion. The moment has come to view that part of our history with understanding rather than exclusion.”

CWI expressed their deepest condolences to Julien’s family and friends.

The board stated in a statement, “We send our sincere condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Bernard Julien. His passing serves as a reminder that a life dedicated to purpose never truly leaves us.”

The statement continued, “Cricket West Indies stands with you at this time of loss, and we hope Bernard was aware that the cricket family he helped shape valued and loved him and that he found peace in the knowledge that his contribution will last forever.”