West Indies World Cup Winner Bernard Julien Dies Aged 75

Bernard Julien, the former West Indies allrounder and a key figure in the team’s triumph at the inaugural 1975 ODI World Cup, has died at the age of 75. He passed away on Saturday in Valsayn, a town in northern Trinidad.

Julien represented the West Indies in 24 Test matches and 12 One Day Internationals between 1973 and 1977. He was best known for his pivotal role in the 1975 World Cup, where his left-arm seam bowling and aggressive lower-order batting played a crucial role in West Indies' historic victory.

In that tournament, Julien claimed 4 for 20 against Sri Lanka in the group stage and 4 for 27 in the semi-final against New Zealand. He also contributed a vital 26 runs off 37 balls in the final against Australia, underlining his reputation as a dynamic and dependable allrounder.

Clive Lloyd, who captained the 1975 World Cup-winning side, paid tribute to Julien, calling him “a fine cricketer” and “a player who always gave over 100 percent.”

“He never shirked his duties, and I could always rely on him with bat and ball,” Lloyd said. “He was loved by everyone around, and held in high regard wherever we went.”

Julien also had notable success in Test cricket, including a match-winning century at Lord’s in 1973, where he scored 121 against England. A year later, he claimed a five-wicket haul against the same opposition. Between 1970 and 1977, he played county cricket for Kent, further showcasing his all-round talents.

However, his international career came to an abrupt halt after he joined the rebel West Indies side that toured apartheid-era South Africa in 1982-83 — a decision that led to bans and ended the careers of several Caribbean cricketers.

Reflecting on Julien’s legacy, Dr Kishore Shallow, President of Cricket West Indies, said:
“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.”

“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.”

Bernard Julien leaves behind a legacy of passion, commitment, and excellence in West Indies cricket — a true champion of the game whose contributions will continue to inspire future generations.