Wayne Wendell Daniel is a former West Indian cricketer known for his menacing pace and fearsome deliveries. Born on September 14, 1956, Daniel emerged as a young talent in the 1970s, helping terrorize the English cricket team in 1976. However, his career faced ups and downs, including a setback when he joined World Series Cricket, before being briefly resurrected later on.
Daniel possessed a muscular physique, which perfectly complimented his powerful bowling style. His delivery action was instantly recognizable, characterized by a unique sequence of movements. Starting with a run reminiscent of a bather sprinting onto a hot beach, he would then simulate running through the shallows, sizzling his feet on the sand. This was followed by a classic back-bending gather and a heaving, knuckle-scraping follow-through.
His bowling style was particularly lethal, as he consistently bowled wickedly just-back-of-a-length deliveries. This technique forced batsmen into awkward positions and often resulted in the ball jarring the bat, occasionally loosening a batsman’s fillings in the process. Daniel’s ability to generate pace and bounce made him a nightmare for opponents.
Although his time with the West Indies cricket team was marked by inconsistency, his dark days became Middlesex’s gain. Playing overseas, Daniel proved to be one of the most successful and popular players in England. His explosive bowling, combined with his athleticism and intensity, made him a fan favorite during his time with the county.
After his playing career, Daniel continued to contribute to the cricket world. He dedicated his time to coaching aspiring fast bowlers, sharing his invaluable expertise and experience with the next generation. Additionally, he appeared as a commentator on radio during the 2003-2004 cricket season, further showcasing his passion and knowledge for the game.
Wayne Daniel’s contribution to West Indies cricket may have had its ups and downs, but his impact on the sport cannot be denied. His intimidating presence as a fast bowler made him an unforgettable player. Through his fierce deliveries, he left a lasting impression on opposing batsmen, West Indies cricket, and the sport as a whole.
Stats:
From an statistical perspective, Wayne Daniel had a respectable career. He played 10 Test matches for West Indies, taking 41 wickets at an average of 24.51. His best figures in a Test innings were 6 for 102 against Australia at Perth in 1981. In One Day Internationals, he played 15 matches, taking 13 wickets at an average of 30.46.
Wayne Daniel’s contribution to cricket will always be remembered, particularly for his imposing presence on the field and his ability to intimidate batsmen with his sheer pace and bounce. His passion for coaching and sharing his knowledge highlights his commitment to the sport and its future.
