Sporting legends : Roy Fredericks - West Indies batting superstar of 1970s - Career HLs & video

 

Roy Fredericks  of Guyana , West Indies born 11 November  1942  was known for his aggressive and fearless left-handed batting, especially as an opener. Standing at just 5'6", he used his quick footwork and sharp reflexes to counter fast bowlers with ease. His style was both entertaining and effective, known for its power and grace, and his ability to hit big shots while maintaining technical discipline.  He was strong on the drive , cut and pull / hook shots. 

Career Highlights

1. Test Career: Fredericks played 59 Test matches for the West Indies from 1968 to 1977, amassing 4,334 runs at an average of 42.49, including 8 centuries and 26 half-centuries. His most memorable Test innings came against Australia in 1975, when he scored a quick 169 off just 145 balls in Perth, facing a formidable Australian pace attack. This knock is regarded as one of the most aggressive and impressive innings against Australia at the time.

2. ODI Career: Fredericks had a brief ODI career, playing 12 matches and scoring 311 runs at an average of 27.36. Although limited in ODIs, his contributions helped West Indies establish dominance in the early years of ODI cricket.

3. First-Class Career: In his first-class career, Fredericks scored over 16,000 runs, with 40 centuries and 80 half-centuries. Representing Guyana and later county teams in England, he remained a prolific scorer across various domestic tournaments.

Major Batting Innings

169 vs Australia, 1975, Perth: A masterpiece, this aggressive century set the tone for Test batsmanship, as Fredericks took on Australia’s feared bowlers and reached his 100 in just 71 balls.

105 vs England, 1973, Lord's: Fredericks scored a memorable century at the iconic ground, asserting his skill on the international stage.

138 vs New Zealand, 1972:* An unbeaten innings showcasing his consistency and composure.

Legacy

Roy Fredericks is remembered as one of West Indies' most dependable openers, a trailblazer who showed courage against hostile bowling attacks. His aggressive yet elegant approach inspired generations of Caribbean cricketers and contributed to the rise of the West Indies as a dominant force in world cricket. He left an indelible mark on the game and the role of the opener in Tests, remembered for his invaluable contributions and unforgettable knocks.

In the below video , watch the batting prowess of Roy Fredericks and his sparkling strokeplay