Bernard Julien, a member of the West Indies’ first-ever ODI World Cup-winning team, has passed away at the age of 75. The former all-rounder breathed his last on Saturday (October 5) in Valsayn, north Trinidad.
Bernard Julien was an integral part of the historic West Indies side that lifted the inaugural ODI World Cup in 1975. Over his career, he represented the Caribbean team in 24 Tests and 12 ODIs, leaving a lasting mark with both bat and ball.
During the 1975 World Cup, Julien showcased his brilliance. He began the tournament by taking 4 wickets for 20 runs against Sri Lanka in the group stage and followed it up with another impressive 4 for 27 against New Zealand in the semi-final. In the final against Australia, his valuable 26-run contribution helped the West Indies secure victory. Julien’s all-round performance batting, bowling, and fielding made him one of the stars of the tournament.
Bernard Julien
Former West Indies captain Clive Lloyd paid tribute to his teammate, saying, “He always gave more than 100 percent. I could rely on him with the bat or the ball wherever the team needed him. A player like that was a true asset.”
One of Julien’s most memorable Test moments came at Lord’s in 1973, when he struck a magnificent 121 against England. The following year, he continued his fine form by taking five wickets against the same side.
Lloyd fondly remembered, “Everyone loved him. When we won the Test at Lord’s, we all stood together signing autographs. He was a vital member of our team and respected everywhere.”
Bernard Julien also had a successful stint in county cricket, representing Kent from 1970 to 1977. However, his international career came to an abrupt end after he joined the rebel West Indies tour to apartheid-era South Africa during the 1982–83 season.