Gerry Alexander’s career was a roller-coaster ride. An ultra-aggressive batsman who also kept wickets, his first selection as West Indies’ gloveman raised several eyebrows and the debates grew longer with each failure of his. However, the management put faith in him, so much that he was even appointed captain once Frank Worrell was unavailable. Call it coincidence or destiny, Alexander’s career flourished once he got leadership duties and went on to become a highly popular captain although he did have to make way once Worrell returned. It was the start of Alexander being a considerably consistent player and he particularly loved playing against Australia. He was multi-talented too, as he was a successful football player as well as a skilled veterinary surgeon. Alexander timed his retirement well, as he quit at a time when he was still doing alright in 1960-61.

Written by Hariprasad Sadanandan