Dubai: The International Cricket Council has expressed its sadness at the passing of legendary cricket writer and broadcaster Tony Cozier. He was 75.
In a condolence message, the ICC Chief Executive David Richardson said: “Tony will be remembered as one of the great media all-rounders, who had a deep understanding of the game, its various nuances and its politics, which were reflected in his writing, as well as his commentaries.
“Tony was widely respected and well-loved amongst his peers, players and administrators alike, his strong views on some issues only reflective of his passion and deep affection for the game and his beloved West Indies. He may have passed, but his writings and voice will live forever.”
Cozier’s father who was also a journalist, helped him find his true calling in his teenage years, and he first reported on a Cricket match when he was just 15. Over the years Cozier went on to write several books including The West Indies: 50 years of Test Cricket which was published in 1978. A former Senior Editor of the Nation newspaper, Cozier was also the editor of West Indies Cricket Annual from 1970-1991
Cozier made his broadcast debut in 1965 by commentating on the West Indies vs Australia Test series. He was a regular member of the commentary team on the BBC’s Test Match Special, Sky Sports and Channel Nine.
Cozier also was a frequent invitee on the ICC’s committees to help decide annual award winners and ICC Cricket Hall of Famers, while the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) gave him honorary membership in 2011 for his contribution to cricket. (ANI)