In a heartbreaking turn of events, Clyde Butts, the former captain of Guyana, off-spinner for the West Indies, and chairman of selectors, departed this life on December 8 at the age of 66. He was killed in an automobile accident close to Eccles, East Bank Demerara. Additionally, on Saturday, Joe Solomon, a former hitter for the West Indies and Guyana, passed away at the age of 93.
From 1958 to 1965, Solomon played in 27 Test matches for the West Indies, scoring 1326 runs at an average of 34. But in the renowned drawn Test match against Australia at the Gabba in 1960, he had a breakthrough performance. His accurate throw from square leg out of the game removed Ian Meckiff, leaving cricket’s first ever drawn Test match with Australia requiring one run off two balls and one wicket remaining.
Butts, an off-spinner, however, showed amazing talent to make his way into the 1980s WI side, which was known for having some of the best speed bowlers in the world. He was not only a brilliant player during his 14-season career, but in the 2000s, he also held the position of chairman of selectors. West Indies Cricket sent a heartfelt statement on social media following the deaths of both seasoned cricket players, saying,
“Tragic news from Guyana. This evening marked the passing of Clyde Butts, a former West Indies off-spinner, captain of Guyana, and head of selectors for the West Indies. Our deepest sympathies go out to his loved ones, family, and friends. May peace be upon his head.
“Sadder, sadder news. The former batter for Guyana and the West Indies, Joe Solomon, died away today. His run out, which resulted in the historic tied Test match at the Gabba in 1960, made him well-known. We offer our heartfelt sympathies to his loved ones, friends, and family. May he find peace now.”
More sad news.
Joe Solomon, the former Guyana and West Indies batsman passed away today.
He was famous for the run out which led to the famous tied Test in 1960 at the Gabba.
We extend sincere condolences to his family, friends and loved ones. May he Rest in Peace. pic.twitter.com/vDLO9ZnBDk
— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) December 8, 2023
Sad news out of Guyana.
Clyde Butts, the former Guyana captain and West Indies off-spinner; and former West Indies Chairman of Selectors passed away this evening
We offer sincere condolences to his family, friends and loved ones. May he Rest in Peace. pic.twitter.com/88QqKPZeR2
— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) December 8, 2023
West Indies lament previous cricket players’ passing during England series
Among his many accomplishments was taking ten wickets in seven Test matches between 1985 and 1988. With a total of 380 wickets, he demonstrated his bowling skills in 87 First-Class matches and 32 List-A games for Guyana. He was not just a player, though; he also began commentating, frequently covering local and regional events in Guyana. In contrast, Solomon will be most known for his iconic hit-trick dismissal in an Australian match, in which his cap flew off and struck the stumps.
West Indies cricket has taken a hit by their abrupt exit, especially as they prepare for their home third ODI against England.
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