Cricket West Indies (CWI) has paid tribute to former West Indies batsman Hammond Allan Furlonge, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 90.
Furlonge, a proud son of Trinidad and Tobago, represented the West Indies in three Test matches between 1955 and 1956. He made his first-class debut for Trinidad during the 1954-55 season, opening the batting alongside the legendary Jeffrey Stollmeyer.
It was a standout performance against the touring Australians — where Furlonge scored 57 and followed it up with a brilliant unbeaten 150 — that thrust him into the spotlight and caught the attention of selectors. He was rewarded with a place in the side for the fifth Test, where he opened with John Holt and registered scores of 4 and 28.
Furlonge was also part of the West Indies squad that toured New Zealand in 1955-56. Despite failing to score in the second Test, he made a strong comeback in the fourth, top-scoring with a resilient 64 in a low-scoring innings where the team was bowled out for just 145.
CWI President Dr Kishore Shallow added: “I offer sincere condolences to the family and friends of Hammond Furlonge. He is one of those unsung heroes of West Indies cricket who served the game at all levels for several decades. During his playing career, he was a dynamic opening batter, competitive and tenacious in his approach to the game.”
“On behalf of the Directors, Management and Staff of Cricket West Indies and all lovers of West Indies cricket, we salute his legacy and his contribution to the game in the Caribbean, and mourn his loss alongside his family, friends and the cricket-loving people of Trinidad & Tobago and the Caribbean.”
CWI CEO Chris Dehring also spoke fondly of Furlonge’s influence on West Indies cricket during its formative years on the global stage.
“Players like Hammond Furlonge were instrumental in shaping the foundations of West Indies cricket. His performances in the 1950s came at a pivotal time in our cricket history, as the team was building its identity and confidence on the world stage. His courage, skill, and quiet determination helped set the tone for future generations of West Indies cricketers.”
“We are forever indebted to pioneers like him who paved the way with distinction and pride.”
