West Indies' 1975 World Cup-winner, all-rounder Bernard Julien dies aged 75

Former West Indies all-rounder, Bernard Julien died at the age of 75 on October 4 in Northern Trinidad. Part of West Indies' inaugural ODI World Cup-winning squad in 197, Julien made 24 Test and 12 ODI appearances.

Julien’s former captain Clive Lloyd hailed the all-rounder’s ability to perform with bat and ball, giving his all on the field.

“He always gave you over 100 percent. He never shirked his duties, and I could always rely on him with bat and ball. He gave his all every time. What a fine cricketer," Lloyd was quoted as saying by the Trinidad & Tobago Guardian.

"We all had total respect for him. He enjoyed himself and was loved by everyone around. I remember we won the Test match at Lords and stood there and signed autographs for a long time, He was good for us and was held in high regard everywhere we went."

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Julien’s contribution in big games

Five decades ago, Julien registered two four-fers in World Cup. In the semifinal against New Zealand, the left-arm pacer starred with 4/27. He restricted the Kiwis to 158. In the final against Australia, he prevented West Indies from getting bowled out, scoring 26 runs from 37 balls. West Indies posted 291/8 and won by 17 runs in the final to lift the trophy.

"As we honour Bernard Julien, we also recognise the importance of reflection and inclusion. The time has come to view that chapter of our history not through exclusion but through understanding," Dr Kishore Shallow, the President of Cricket West Indies, said in an official statement.

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"To the family, friends, and loved ones of Bernard Julien, we extend our deepest condolences. His passing reminds us that a life devoted to purpose never truly leaves us. Cricket West Indies stands with you in this moment of loss, and we hope Bernard knew he was valued and loved by the cricketing family he helped to shape, and that he found peace knowing his contribution will always endure."

Julien’s career

Julien had a nearly four-year career in international cricket. From 24 Tests, he scored 866 runs, including two centuries and three fifties. He took 50 wickets in the longest format, including a fifer. In 12 ODIs, he bagged 18 wickets at an average of 25.72. He scored 86 runs down the order. In first-class cricket, he claimed 483 wickets.

He represented English County side Kent as well for seven years. His career ended abruptly when he joined the rebel West Indies side which faced a banned South African side during the apartheid era.