| Player: | IVA Richards, AME Roberts, MA Holding |
DateLine: 17th February 2009
West Indies greats Vivian Richards, Andy Roberts and Michael Holding were on Tuesday presented the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame caps to Windies legendary trio formally induct them into the exalted honour list of the world governing body. The former cricketers were presented with their Hall of Fame caps by West Indies Cricket Board President Dr Julian Hunte on the field of play during the lunch interval on day two of the third Test between the hosts and England at the Antigua Recreation Ground.
Richards, who made the fastest hundred in Test history at the venue when he reached the three-figure mark in just 56 balls against England in 1986, said, "It is a real pleasure to be recognised as one of the legends of West Indies cricket and in a group of players in world cricket. It was special to receive this honour alongside two players I played a lot of cricket with".
Holding, who was also celebrating his 55th birthday, said, "It is a tremendous honour to become part of this small group of cricketers. It's not something you set out to try and achieve when you start playing cricket but it is special to be recognised alongside such greats of the game. It is one of those things that will endure a long time after people have forgotten the matches I played in and it makes me proud."
Local hero Roberts said, "It is a real privilege to be honoured in this way and it was a proud moment to receive the cap."
The trio are among 13 West Indies legends and 55 players worldwide who are being inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame, which is being run in association with Federation of International Cricketers' Associations (FICA). Further presentations will be made later on during England's tour of the Caribbean.
Previously, during South Africa's tour of Australia, former South Africa batsman Barry Richards and Australia wicketkeeper Rodney Marsh received their caps.
The ICC Cricket Hall of Fame initiative forms part of the ICC's centenary celebrations which are focused on celebrating the unique heritage of the game and cricket's enduring spirit.
