The Order of the Caribbean Community (OCC) has been bestowed upon Clive Lloyd, the West Indies’ captain who led his team to consecutive World Cup victories. It is the greatest honour in the area.
The success of West Indies in the late 1970s and early 1980s was personified by Lloyd. He was a fast-hitting batter who could score a lot of runs quickly. He was a cunning tactician, and it was under his direction that the West Indies became the first ever global champions in cricket.
Clive Lloyd led the way for two decades of supremacy. The first West Indian to reach 100 Tests was him. In 74 games as their captain, he only lost twelve.
At the 47th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), which took place in Grenada on Sunday, Clive Lloyd, 79, was awarded the OCC.
“This honour is a fitting tribute to a man who has not only exemplified excellence on the cricket field but has also been an unwavering pillar of inspiration and leadership for the Caribbean and the world,” said Dr Kishore Shallow, president of Cricket West Indies, who was present at the ceremony. The impact that Sir Clive has had on cricket and his commitment to its advancement are simply incomparable.
“Every West Indian may relate strongly to Sir Clive’s heritage. His fortitude, tenacity, and sportsmanship have established a benchmark for what it takes to be a real champion. His long-lasting influence on our area and the game of cricket is demonstrated by CARICOM’s appreciation of him. It is a pleasure to share in this occasion with him.”
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Even after his playing career ended, Lloyd remained involved in cricket as a match referee, coach, and selector. In 2019, he received a knighthood and continued to serve as a civil servant for the Ministry of Health in Guyana.