LONDON: Aug 11. (Reuter) After one final salute to a stage he has graced for 18 years Viv Richards tucked he bat under his arm and embarked on the long lost walk.
For half a minute one of the world’s greatest batsmen had thought about nothing other than that his dismissal was a potentially catastrophic blow to the West Indies hopes of saving the fifth Test against England
Then it suddenly dawned on him never again would he make the return trip in cricket’s ultimate contest.
Richards turned 180 degrees held his cap in one hand his bat in the other and acknowledged 17.000 Oval spectators who were paying wonderful tribute to him
England’s players had been delighted to see the back of the 39 year-old Afitiguan after 2 fit-for-a king innings of 60. But to a man they joined in the rapturous applause.
Fast bowler Phillip Defreitas racing in from the outfield to congratulate successful bowler David Lawrence even changed route to shake Richards’ hand.
Richards may already have forgotten just who did the hand-shaking. But he will always remember the gesture
Before this match began he vowed there would be no sadness no tears. He just wanted to enjoy his final Test before retirement.
His record speaks for itself: 121 Tests 8540 runs 24 centuries average 50.23 Highest score: 291 aptly on the same ground 15 years ago.
“Only Sunil Gavaskar and Australia’s Allan Border have amassed more Test runs.
But just in case heart ruled head during that long trek back the West Indies captain pulled his cherished maroon cap over his eyes and never looked up again until he reached the sanctuary of the dressing room.
The use went on and on. dozens of spectators and stewards tried to pat him on the back an¢ several succeeded. But Richard: “just kept on walking.
Thanks Viv we’ll miss you’ read a banner strung on the balcony nearby building. No one will argue.
Article extracted from this publication >> August 30, 1991
