News Americas, New York, NY, 16 October 2024: Legendary West Indies fast bowler Sir Curtly Elconn Lynwall Ambrose has added another accolade to his illustrious career by receiving an Honorary Doctor of Laws from the Five Islands Campus of the University of the West Indies (UWI) at the weekend .
The 61-year-old Antiguan cricket icon was honored for his significant contribution not only to West Indies cricket but also to the wider sporting and cultural landscape of the Caribbean.
Known for his towering height, discipline and exceptional skill, Sir Curtly claimed 630 wickets for the West Indies between 1988 and 2000, cementing his place as one of the greatest fast bowlers in cricket history. His influence, both on and off the field, has left a lasting legacy in Caribbean sports.
Cricket West Indies President Dr. Kishore Shallow congratulated Sir Curtly on the achievement, calling it a “fitting tribute” to his extraordinary career and influence.
“On behalf of the entire West Indies cricket family, I extend our warmest congratulations to Sir Curtly Ambrose on this remarkable achievement,” said Dr. Shallow. “This Honorary Doctor of Laws is a fitting recognition of his extraordinary career and his wider contribution to society. Sir Curtly has been a true ambassador for our region, representing the pride, discipline and passion of the West Indians on the global cricket stage and beyond.”
Dr. Shallow also highlighted Sir Curtly’s lasting influence, noting: “He continues to inspire not only aspiring cricketers, but all of us across the Caribbean. We celebrate this well-deserved honor and remain forever grateful for his indelible contribution to West Indies cricket and the rich heritage of our region.”
This latest honor further cements Sir Curtly Ambrose’s legacy as a sporting legend and cultural icon throughout the Caribbean.
Standing at 6 feet 7 inches, Ambrose’s height, combined with his pace and accuracy, made him a formidable force in cricket. He played 98 Test matches for the West Indies and was often ranked as the best bowler in the world during his career.
Initially more interested in basketball, Ambrose took up cricket later in life but soon made an impact, debuting for the West Indies in 1988. Known for his devastating bowling spells, including taking 7 wickets for 1 run against Australia in 1993 and 6 for 24 against England in 1994, he became the match winner for the team. Despite injuries in his later years, he continued to perform consistently until his retirement in 2000.
Ambrose was named the Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1992 and was later inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame. After retirement, he pursued a career in music as a bass guitarist in a reggae band.
