Vasbert Drakes

A robust pacer hailing from Barbados, Vasbert Drakes began his international career in 1994/95 when he was picked for the first ODI against Australia at his home town-Barbados. Bowling alongside the likes of Walsh, Ambrose and Benjamin, Drakes did not fare badly, collecting 1-39 in 9.5 overs. Unfortunately he was cut off from the setup despite owning a second skill as a handy batsman lower down the order. He did not obtain a chance to return until September 2002 when he was chosen for the Champions Trophy. He excelled in the tournament although the team messed up badly.

He briefly added steel to the Test bowling, claiming a career best of 5/93 against Australia in 2003 in a winning cause. His most memorable moment though arrived with the bat when his unbeaten 27 in a glittering cameo guided West Indies to the highest successful run-chase in Test history. He played till the 2003 World Cup and signed off with 33 Test wickets and 51 ODI wickets.

Drakes' talent was also sought after outside the Caribbean as proved by his nomadic stints with Scotland, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, Sussex and Warwickshire. Interestingly, Drakes is one among only four batsmen to have been timed out in First Class cricket.

By Deivarayan Muthu