(Cricket News) The West Indies offspinner of the 1980s, Clyde Butts, passed away in Guyana on Friday at the age of 66. Several Caribbean publications reported that Butts’ death was due to an accident.
During his first-class career, which spanned from 1980–81 to 1993–94, he played 87 games; he also played seven Tests, making his home debut against New Zealand in April 1985 and going on to play in Pakistan, New Zealand, and India.
Even though Butts was a very successful bowler in the Caribbean domestic circuit, amassing 348 first-class wickets at an average of 24.19, including 23 five-wicket hauls, he was unable to quite make an impression in international cricket. In seven Test matches, five of which were held in the subcontinent, he managed the West Indies Under-19 team and, more recently, chaired the selectors when the West Indies men’s T20 World Cup team won in 2012.
“In retirement, his unwavering commitment to coaching reflected his dedication. He tirelessly invested hours, nurturing young talent and passionately fostering their development within the sport.”
Dr. Kishore Shallow, president of Cricket West Indies, said in a statement: “Clyde Butts, a stalwart figure in West Indies’ first-class history, displayed extraordinary adeptness as an off-spinner and captain for Guyana. His legacy extended beyond the field, earning him recognition as a statesman and ambassador for the game in Guyana and the region.”
His outstanding leadership as Chairman of Selectors notably resulted in the formation of the victorious team that won the 2012 ICC T20 World Cup, a victory that brought immense pride and glory to the people of the West Indies. He served with distinction as Team Manager for the West Indies Under-19 team.”
