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Joe Solomon, renowned former Guyana and West Indies batsman, breathed his last on Saturday at the age of 93. The Windies Cricket expressed sorrow over the loss, remembering Solomon for his notable contributions, including the iconic run-out that played a pivotal role in the historic tied Test in 1960 at the Gabba. Sincere condolences are extended to his family, friends, and loved ones as the cricketing community mourns the passing of a legend. May he Rest in Peace,Windies Cricket wrote on X.
More sad news.
Joe Solomon, the former Guyana and West Indies batsman passed away today.
He was famous for the run out which led to the famous tied Test in 1960 at the Gabba.
We extend sincere condolences to his family, friends and loved ones. May he Rest in Peace. pic.twitter.com/vDLO9ZnBDk
— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) December 8, 2023
In a career spanning from 1958 to 1965, Joe Solomon, the iconic West Indies batsman, played 27 Tests, amassing 1326 runs with an impressive average of 34. Despite making his debut at the age of 26, he quickly secured his place in the squad.
Solomon’s introduction to West Indies cricket was nothing short of spectacular, scoring centuries in his first three innings: 114 not out against Jamaica, 108 against Barbados, and 121 against the touring Pakistan. His remarkable performance earned him a spot in the West Indies squad against India, where, in his fourth Test, he displayed his prowess with an unbeaten 100 in Delhi.
However, it was Solomon’s pivotal role in the historic tied Test against Australia in 1960 at the Gabba that etched his name in cricketing history. With six runs needed off the final eight-ball over and three wickets in hand, Australia seemed poised for victory. Yet, a dramatic turn of events, including Solomon’s dead-eye run-out that caught Ian Meckiff short of his crease, resulted in the first-ever tied Test.
Solomon’s contributions extended beyond his heroic run-out, showcasing his batting prowess during the Australia tour. Notably, a minor controversy arose in the second Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) when he was out hit-wicket, with his cap falling on the stumps.
