On this day: Birth of West Indian legend – Gordon Greenidge

Nestled in the Caribbean islands, the little nation of Barbados has produced many cricket legends. From Gary Sobers to Malcolm Marshall, the list is charming. Another glorious name to come out from Barbados is Gordon Greenidge. He turns 69 on 1st May 2020.

With 6,482 runs in 148 Test innings, Greenidge-Haynes is the most successful opening partnership in Test cricket. One half of that epic partnership was born today. #OnThisDay @windiescricket pic.twitter.com/FOD2hMGJF2

— 100MB (@100MasterBlastr) May 1, 2020

Greenidge began his cricket career with Hampshire in county cricket. He had actually qualified to represent England but he chose to play for West Indies.

Forming one part of the legendary opening partnership with Desmond Haynes, Greenidge became a permanent part of the ruthless West Indian side. The pair of Greenidge-Haynes became the cornerstone of the West Indian domination. Together, they added 6,258 runs which still remains the record for an opening partnership in Test cricket.

Greenidge featured in 108 Tests and 128 ODIs for West Indies. He amassed 7,558 runs with 19 centuries in the longest format while accumulating 5,134 runs in the limited-overs game. His innings of 214* while chasing down 343 runs against England in the Lord’s Test remains an outstanding feat.

The opener moved away from international cricket in May 1991 but he soon took a career in cricket coaching. He is currently serving on the West Indies selection committee.