Menu

Gordon Greenidge

Antigua Recreation Ground WI v A 2003 001
Antigua Recreation Ground WI v A 2003 001 Image: Wikimedia Commons. Mattinbgn / CC BY 3.0

Overview

Sir Cuthbert Gordon Greenidge (born 1 May 1951) is a Barbadian retired cricketer who represented the West Indies in Test and One Day International (ODI) cricket for 17 years. An opening batsman, he is regarded worldwide as one of the greatest and most destructive openers in the history of the game. Alongside his international career, Greenidge played first-class cricket for Barbados in the Caribbean and for Hampshire in English county cricket.

Key facts

Full name Sir Cuthbert Gordon Greenidge
Born 1 May 1951
Nationality Barbadian
Role Opening batsman
International team West Indies (Test and ODI)
Domestic teams Barbados, Hampshire
International career length 17 years
ICC Cricket Hall of Fame Inducted in 2009

Background

Greenidge was born in Barbados and went on to develop his cricket in both the Caribbean and England. His association with Hampshire established him as a leading figure in English county cricket, while his appearances for Barbados formed the foundation of his progression to West Indies selection.

International career

Greenidge represented the West Indies for 17 years across Test and One Day International cricket, becoming one of the defining opening batsmen of his era. He was a member of the West Indies squads that won the Cricket World Cup in 1975 and 1979, and was also part of the squad that finished as runners-up in the 1983 edition of the tournament.

Domestic career

In first-class cricket, Greenidge played for Barbados in West Indian domestic competition and for Hampshire in the English county circuit. His long stint with Hampshire made him one of the prominent overseas professionals in county cricket during his playing years.

Significance and recognition

Greenidge is widely regarded as among the greatest and most destructive opening batsmen in the history of cricket. In 2009, he was inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame, formally recognising his standing among the game's all-time great players. He has also received a knighthood, reflected in the title "Sir" preceding his name.

Timeline

  • 1 May 1951 — Born in Barbados.
  • 1975 — Member of the West Indies squad that won the Cricket World Cup.
  • 1979 — Member of the West Indies squad that won the Cricket World Cup.
  • 1983 — Member of the West Indies squad that finished runners-up at the Cricket World Cup.
  • 2009 — Inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame.

References