Cricket West Indies mourn loss of veteran cricketers Clyde Butts and Joe Solomon

Clyde Butts and Joe Solomon. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)

In a tragic turn of events, the cricketing world bid farewell to Clyde Butts, the former Guyana captain, West Indies off-spinner, and former chairman of selectors, who passed away on December 8 at the age of 66. His demise resulted from a car accident near Eccles, East Bank Demerara. Former West Indies and Guyana batter, Joe Solomon also passed away at 93 years old on Saturday.

Solomon, during his career from 1958 to 1965 featured in 27 Tests for West Indies, amassing 1326 runs with an average of 34. However, his standout moment was in the famed tied Test against Australia at the Gabba in 1960. With Australia needing one run off two balls and a sole wicket in hand, his precise throw from square leg dismissed Ian Meckiff, resulting in cricket’s inaugural tied Test match. 

On the other hand, Butts showcased remarkable skill to break into the dominant West Indies team of the 1980s, a squad renowned for its exceptional pace bowlers, despite being an off-spinner. Over a career spanning 14 seasons, he not only contributed on the field but also served as the chairman of selectors during the 2000s. Reacting to the passing of both veteran cricketers, West Indies Cricket expressed deep sorrow on social media, stating, 

“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.”

“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.”

West Indies mourn former cricketers’ demise amidst England series 

Butts’ legacy included seven Test matches from 1985 to 1988, where he claimed 10 wickets. He featured in 87 First-Class matches and 32 List-A games for Guyana, showcasing his bowling prowess with a total of 380 wickets. His involvement extended beyond playing, as he also ventured into commentary, regularly covering regional and domestic matches in Guyana. Whereas, Solomon will be remembered for his famous hit wicket dismissal, where his cap fell off his head, only to hit the stumps in a match against Australia.

Their sudden departure has sent shockwaves through West Indies cricket, particularly as they prepare for their 3rd ODi against England at home.