Everton Weekes, the short and stocky Barbadian batsman, evoked comparisons to Don Bradman. While Bradman's genius was often described as methodical, Weekes possessed a mercurial brilliance all his own.
Cricket history boasts few trios as impactful as the Three Ws – Frank Worrell, Everton Weekes, and Clyde Walcott. These Barbadian batsmen dominated the game from the late 1940s to the late 50s, ushering in a new era for West Indies cricket. Their combined influence was undeniable, exemplified by their role in the West Indies' first Test victory at Lord's in 1950. Between them, they amassed 1,106 runs in that series, nearly half of the West Indies' total of 2,313.
Weekes himself contributed 338 runs, including 129 at Trent Bridge in a 283-run partnership with Worrell. That tour also saw Weekes achieve his highest first-class score of 304 not out against Cambridge University, one of five double centuries he recorded on the trip.
While their cricketing achievements were remarkable, the Three Ws also profoundly impacted the social fabric of the West Indies. In a society still grappling with racial inequality, their success became a symbol of Black pride and challenged the existing power structures. Their talent and dignity demanded recognition and respect, echoing the sentiment: "to keep us down, you must first knock over our stumps."
Born on February 26, 1925, in the New Orleans slum near Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Weekes's path to cricketing stardom was unlikely. Discovered during net practice, his talent earned him a groundsman's job and a place in a club team. Remarkably, he received no formal coaching. Weekes played in the Barbados Cricket League from the age of 12 and debuted for Barbados in 1944.
Weekes's batting was a blend of calculated aggression and breathtaking exuberance. He systematically dismantled bowling attacks, demonstrating a pugnaciousness rarely seen. He favored the back foot, cutting, hooking, and driving with immense power. He could also dance down the pitch to spinners, displaying remarkable footwork. Despite his aggressive style, Weekes was a meticulous judge of the ball, and like Bradman, he prioritized placement over sixes, hitting only two in his Test career. He also possessed a unique defensive stroke, played so late it seemed he had considered every possible attacking option before deciding on a last-second, almost nonchalant, block.
Test Career Highlights
Weekes's Test debut against England in 1947-48 was inauspicious, and he was briefly dropped. However, a crucial 141 against England in Jamaica secured his place for the tour to India in 1948-49. There, he unleashed his full potential, scoring 779 runs at an average of 111.28 and setting a world record of five consecutive Test centuries, with a high of 194. Some argue he was denied a sixth consecutive century by a controversial run-out decision. His dominance continued in England in 1950, though his Test average of 56.33 was overshadowed by his first-class exploits.
Weekes's form remained consistent, and he continued to score heavily against various opponents. In New Zealand in 1955-56, he hit three centuries in the first three Tests and five in his first five first-class innings. He was also a brilliant fielder, taking 49 catches in his 48 Tests, and was a Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1951.
His 1957 tour of England was hampered by ill health, but he produced an innings of sheer genius at Lord’s, scoring 90 after breaking a finger. Dennis Compton hailed it as an innings of genius.
Weekes was named captain in 1958, his final year in Test cricket. His tenacious batting style took its toll, and he retired from Tests at just 32, though he continued to play first-class cricket for Barbados until 1964, leading the team with distinction.
Life After Cricket
After retiring, Weekes became a respected commentator, coach, and briefly served as an ICC match referee. He was also a talented bridge player and represented Barbados in the game. He remained close to Worrell and Walcott and was the last of the trio to be knighted in 1995. Weekes passed away in Christchurch in 2020.
Everton Weekes retired with 4,455 Test runs at an average of 58.61, including 15 centuries, in 48 Test matches. His home average was significantly higher (69.14) than his overseas average (49.63). His record against India was particularly impressive, averaging 106.78.
While debates about the greatest West Indian batsman will continue, Everton Weekes's name will always be in the conversation. His blend of power, skill, and sheer presence made him a force to be reckoned with, both on and off the field.
---
*Freelance journalist
Comments