Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago – October 6, 2025:
Bernard Denis Julien, a key member of the West Indies team that lifted the inaugural Cricket World Cup in 1975, has passed away at the age of 75. He breathed his last on Saturday, October 4, in Valsayn, Trinidad and Tobago.
Julien, born on March 13, 1950, in Carenage, was one of the early pioneers of West Indies’ all-round dominance in world cricket. A left-handed batsman and left-arm fast-medium bowler, he played 24 Tests and 12 One-Day Internationals between 1973 and 1977 — years that marked the rise of the Caribbean cricket empire.
During the historic 1975 World Cup, Julien delivered several match-winning spells. His standout performances included 4 for 20 against Sri Lanka and 4 for 27 in the semi-final against New Zealand. In the final at Lord’s, he played a gritty 26 not out, helping Clive Lloyd’s men secure a famous win over Australia and claim the first-ever World Cup trophy.
Outside the international arena, Julien made his mark in English county cricket with Kent, where he played from 1970 to 1977. He became known for his smooth action, deceptive swing, and ability to contribute crucial lower-order runs — qualities that made him one of the most complete all-rounders of his generation.
However, his international career ended prematurely after he joined the controversial “rebel tours” to apartheid South Africa in the early 1980s. That decision effectively closed the door on any return to West Indies cricket.
