Richard Arkwright Austin was a gifted allrounder hailing from the West Indies. Born on May 10, 1958, in Kingston, Jamaica, Austin possessed the unique ability to excel with both the bat and the ball, making him a valuable asset for any cricket team. Throughout his career, Austin showcased his skills as a medium pace bowler and an offspin specialist when the situation demanded.
Austin’s journey in international cricket commenced during the 1977-78 season when he broke into the West Indies team. His early appearances were promising, as he showcased his potential in the first two Tests, scoring 22 runs at an average of 11.00. Simultaneously, he signed a contract with World Series Cricket, a groundbreaking cricket competition that managed to allure many talented cricketers.
Unfortunately, due to his association with World Series Cricket, Austin, along with some of his fellow rebels, were dropped from the West Indies squad for the third Test match. This unexpected exclusion led to the walkout of the remaining Packer contractees, causing a significant uproar in the cricketing world. Despite the controversy, Austin’s form remained unaffected, and he concluded the domestic season as the top run-scorer, showcasing his resilience and determination.
Although Austin flirted with World Series Cricket, he never quite cemented his place in the tournament and subsequently missed out on serious consideration for an international recall after its settlement. Disenchanted with the cricketing system and opportunities available to him, Austin made a decision that would ultimately shape his destiny. In 1982-83, he opted to take part in the rebel tour of South Africa, resulting in a lifetime ban imposed on him by the West Indies Cricket Board.
Following his ban, Austin’s life took a tragic turn. He fell into the depths of despair, battling homelessness and falling victim to drug addiction. The once-promising cricket career was eclipsed by the shadows of addiction, leaving Austin isolated and forgotten by the cricketing fraternity. However, hope lingered in the air, and in the late 1990s, Austin managed to briefly overcome his addiction and return to his passion for cricket by coaching his local club.
Unfortunately, Austin’s triumph over addiction was short-lived, and he succumbed to the streets once again. Despite his cricketing talents, it is worth mentioning that Austin was an accomplished football player, even representing Jamaica in the sport, highlighting his versatility as an athlete.
Richard Arkwright Austin’s life embodies the triumphs and tragedies that can befall a talent that never reached its true potential. His cricketing ability, shown during his brief international stint, proved his worth as a player who could contribute in multiple facets of the game. However, his association with World Series Cricket and subsequent ban plunged him into a life of despair and addiction, forever tarnishing his legacy. Though his journey was marred by hardships and adversity, Austin’s story serves as a stark reminder of the impact external factors can have on the lives of talented individuals.
