OTD: Joel Garner was born in 1952

Joel Garner is hailed as one of the most formidable fast bowlers of all time. The Caribbean cricketer was born on December 16, 1952, in Christ Church, Barbados. He made his international debut on February 18, 1977, in a clash against Pakistan. One month later, he received his maiden ODI cap, and once again, he faced Pakistan.

Garner used to bowl quick and stood at 6 feet 8 inches. He used to generate pace and bounce irrespective of the nature of the pitch he operated on. The right-arm pacer was nicknamed Big Bird. The pitches back then were mostly uncovered and batters had to be wary of uneven bounce. Helmets nowadays are gritty and capable of coping hard blows. However, the protective gear back in the day was nowhere near as good.

Garner was a part of the West Indies side which won the second ODI World Cup in 1979. He played a key role in the final against England, taking a five-for and giving away just 38 runs. This continues to be the best bowling figures in a men’s World Cup final.

Garner formed a fearsome bowling partnership with the likes of Michael Holding, Andy Roberts, Colin Croft, and Malcolm Marshall. The West Indies remained undefeated in a Test series for 15 years thanks to the dominance of this bowling line-up.

The 73-year-old played 58 Tests, picking up 259 wickets at an average of 20.98. He bagged seven five-fors, including best figures of 6/56. On the other hand, in ODIs, he accounted for 146 wickets in 98 matches at an average of 18.85. This includes three five-fors and best figures of 5/31.

In 2010, Garner was inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame. He has served as a team manager, a Cricket West Indies (CWI) selector, and fulfilled many other duties after calling time on his playing career.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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