New Delhi: Hard-hitting New Zealand batsman Brendon McCullum has named West Indies cricket legend Vivian Richards as his favourite player of all time.
No wonder the dashing cricketer, who is set to play his last career Test match against Australia later this week, had Richards as an inspiration.
Richards, has been dubbed by many around the world as the ‘most destructive batsman of all time.’
Brendon stated that Vivian Richards was the leader of the game around the world during his time and the latter’s charisma influenced him.
“My favourite West Indies player of all time has to be Sir Viv Richards. He was the leader of cricket right around the world throughout his time; his charisma, the way he carried himself, the way he led his team and obviously the way that he played as well,” said McCullum.
McCullum went on to add that he met Vivian some time ago and cited it was a cool moment to meet his hero.
“He wasn’t just one of my favourite West Indies players; he was one of my favourite players of all time as well.
“I had the opportunity to meet him not long ago. Sometimes it’s dangerous to meet your heroes, but not on this occasion. It was a really cool moment, and what a guy he is as well.” McCullum said.
McCullum is among several international players selected to play in the fourth edition of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) due to start later this year.
The New Zealand wicketkeeper batsman will represent Trinbago Knight Riders, one of six franchises in the CPL.
“I’m super excited to be featuring in this edition of the 2016 CPL. It’s really special to be playing in the Caribbean.
“The fan engagement and carnival atmosphere is something I’ve heard a lot from a lot of players around the world,” said McCullum, who has gathered 2,140 runs from 71 T20 International matches with a top score of 123.
McCullum is representing a franchise that also includes South African star batsman Hashim Amla, Umar Akmal of Pakistan and former West Indies stroke-maker Ramnaresh Sarwan.
