Former West Indies all-rounder cricketer David Holford, who played 24 Tests for the West Indies between 1966 and 1977, died on Tuesday at the age of 82, according to Cricket West Indies.
Holford, a leg-spinner and lower-order batsman, is arguably most remembered for his part in an amazing, match-saving performance during the Lord’s Test of 1966, when he hit an unbeaten century alongside his cousin Garfield Sobers in a stand of 274, which helped save the match.
Holford hit 105 not out in his third Test innings after stepping in when the West Indies were reduced to 95 for five in their second innings, with Sobers finishing on an undefeated 163.
Holford’s finest Test bowling stats of five for 23 against India in the first innings at Barbados’ Kensington Oval in 1976 helped set up a victory.
Before briefly playing for Trinidad and Tobago, he was captain of Barbados and guided them to the Shell Shield triumph.
Holford started working as a selector and team manager for the West Indies after retiring.
Cricket Holford was the quintessential West Indian cricketer and ambassador, according to West Indies president Ricky Skerritt.
He was a top-quality all-rounder and captain who gave his all at all levels as a player. His vision and passion as an administrator, squad manager, and pitch curator reflected his continuous love for the game.